WILLEMSTAD – Curaçao’s Minister of Education, Science, Culture, and Sports (OWCS), Sithree ‘Cey’ van Heydoorn (MFK), is currently on an official working visit to the Netherlands from July 23 to August 9. His agenda spans education, culture, and sports, with a particular focus on Curaçaoan students, cultural institutions, and the development of theatre and the arts. The visit also includes high-level meetings with professional football players of Curaçaoan descent, according to the Amigoe newspaper. 

From August 6 to 9, the focus of the trip shifts entirely to sports, particularly football. In light of Curaçao’s ambitions to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Van Heydoorn is holding discussions with players of Curaçaoan heritage currently representing other national teams. According to FIFA eligibility rules, these players may still be able to switch allegiances and play for Curaçao. 

Strategic Talks with Diaspora Players 

The minister emphasized the importance of attracting talent from the diaspora to boost the island’s sporting ambitions. “This is a unique opportunity not only to strengthen our national team, but also to deepen the connection with Curaçaoan communities abroad,” Van Heydoorn stated. 

By engaging directly with Curaçao-born or Curaçao-rooted footballers in Europe, the government hopes to build a more competitive team and create lasting ties between the island and its overseas talent pool. 

The initiative is part of a broader strategy to invest in the island’s sports development, promote national pride, and inspire young athletes at home.