"President Lagarde is totally focused on her mission and has not taken any decision regarding the end of her term," an ECB spokesperson said. Last year when the FT suggested Lagarde may leave early, the ECB said Lagarde was "determined to complete her term." There are no formal candidates for the job yet, but several names have been floating among ECB circles as potential ECB presidents. Lagarde would leave the ECB at a relatively tranquil time. Lagarde's term runs until October 31, 2027.

Source: Irish Independent February 18, 2026 19:49 UTC