Christine Lagarde has repeatedly stated she will depart the ECB presidency in 2027, with her eight-year term set to conclude in October of that year. In September 2026 remarks, she confirmed an exit that year while leaving the precise timing open, consistent with earlier July comments ruling out departure before year-end. European capitals are already negotiating successor arrangements and related board vacancies expiring in 2027, including the chief economist role, but no official actions or announcements point to a 2026 vacancy. These signals of continuity through the remainder of the year underpin the 73% implied probability traders assign to her remaining in post.