nuSep 18, 2026, 11:11

ECB President Lagarde leaves door ajar for early departure

ECB President Christine Lagarde has raised questions about her future by declining to confirm she will remain in office until her term ends in October 2027. Potential successors are already being discussed, with former Dutch central bank president Klaas Knot frequently cited as a leading candidate for the role.

European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde has fueled speculation regarding her future by leaving the possibility of an early departure open. While her current term is scheduled to end in October 2027, recent comments made to Irish broadcaster RTE suggested that her timeline remains flexible. Lagarde, who has served as ECB president since 2019, noted that any transition would be handled with the utmost professionalism regardless of when it occurs.

Following these remarks, potential successors have already been discussed, with former Dutch central bank president Klaas Knot emerging as a primary candidate. Reports indicate that France may support Knot for the presidency, provided a French candidate secures the influential role of ECB chief economist, which will become vacant next year. Other figures, such as former Spanish central bank governor Pablo Hernández de Cos, are also being considered as potential replacements should Lagarde choose to step down before her term officially concludes.

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Based on reporting by nu. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

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