WILLEMSTAD – Days of internal unrest, pressure from players, and growing public debate have ended with the return of Dick Advocaat as coach of the Curaçao national football team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The decision was officially confirmed Tuesday by the Federashon Futbòl Kòrsou (FFK) during a press conference that followed one of the most turbulent weeks in recent Curaçao football history.
Advocaat, Martina, and Rutten
Advocaat had resigned in February because of the health situation involving his daughter, after helping guide Curaçao to its historic first-ever World Cup qualification.
FFK initially appointed Fred Rutten as his successor and publicly insisted the federation would continue moving forward under Rutten’s leadership.
But dissatisfaction reportedly grew inside the squad after disappointing friendly losses against China and Australia.
Players increasingly pushed for Advocaat’s return, believing the veteran Dutch coach remained the central figure behind the team’s discipline, unity, and historic success.
The pressure intensified after reports surfaced suggesting that sponsor Corendon preferred to continue supporting the project only if Advocaat returned for the World Cup.
Former press chief Kees Jansma later criticized the situation publicly and argued that sponsors should never determine sporting decisions within a national team.
Corendon has denied influencing Rutten’s departure.
On Monday, Rutten officially stepped down, stating that he wanted to prevent further tensions from damaging relationships within the team and technical staff.
The developments have triggered widespread discussion across Curaçao about governance, professionalism, and external influence within the national football structure.
Despite the controversy, many supporters now see Advocaat’s return as restoring stability before the country’s World Cup debut.
The veteran coach now faces the challenge of preparing Curaçao for a difficult group featuring Germany national football team, Ivory Coast national football team, and Ecuador national football team.
For Curaçao, the tournament will mark one of the most important moments in the island’s sporting history.