WILLEMSTAD - The upcoming World Cup qualifying match between Jamaica and Curaçao is now in serious doubt following the passage of Hurricane Melissa, which caused widespread devastation across Jamaica.

FIFA and the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) are currently assessing alternative arrangements as the full extent of the damage is being evaluated.

The Category 5 hurricane tore across Jamaica with winds exceeding 250 kilometers per hour, leaving a trail of destruction. Large parts of the island are facing power outages, while several stadiums, roads, and public facilities have been severely damaged.

Authorities have yet to release a full assessment of casualties or the total damage, but early reports indicate that the infrastructure needed to host the match has been heavily impacted.

The decision on whether the qualifier will go ahead as planned rests with the Jamaica Football Federation, which was set to host the match in Kingston. FIFA is expected to make an official announcement soon, depending on the outcome of local recovery efforts and stadium inspections.

If the fixture is postponed or relocated, it could affect the entire Caribbean group schedule for the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026 qualification series.