HOUSTON – On Sunday, June 14, 2026, Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo, the highest elected official in Harris County, Texas, presented an official proclamation to Curaçao Prime Minister Gilmar Pisas declaring June 14, 2026, as “Curaçao Historic World Cup Debut Day.”
The ceremony took place at the Hotel ZaZa Museum District in Houston on the same day Curaçao played its first-ever match in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Prime Minister Pisas receiving the recognition
The proclamation recognizes Curaçao as the smallest country in history to qualify for a FIFA World Cup. With a population of approximately 156,000 people and a land area of 443 square kilometers (171 square miles), Curaçao has secured a unique place in both sporting and world history.
The recognition comes after GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS® officially certified Curaçao on November 19, 2025, as the smallest country by population ever to qualify for the FIFA World Cup. The official certificate was presented to Curaçao Football Federation President Gilbert Martina on behalf of the country.
During the ceremony, Prime Minister Gilmar Pisas highlighted the significance of the achievement.
“Curaçao is not just on the football map. We are on the world map. This is what happens when a small island refuses to accept limits,” Pisas said.
Judge Lina Hidalgo also praised Curaçao's accomplishment.
“Greatness is not measured by size. Curaçao is proof of that, and Harris County is proud to stand with them on this historic day,” she stated.
The event was organized by the Government of Curaçao in collaboration with CINEX and was attended by several government officials and distinguished guests. Among those present were Governor Mauritsz de Kort, Parliament President Fergino Brownbill, members of the Council of Ministers, and various stakeholders from both Curaçao and the United States.
The proclamation marks another milestone in Curaçao's remarkable World Cup journey, which has brought unprecedented international attention to the island. From the Caribbean to Texas, Curaçao continues to make history, earning official recognition on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean.