WILLEMSTAD – Curaçao’s football federation used the 76th FIFA Congress 2026 in Vancouver to strengthen its international partnerships and push forward plans for the long-term development of football on the island.
During the congress, representatives of the Federashon Futbòl Kòrsou (FFK) held what they described as constructive talks with both FIFA and CONCACAF on the future of Curaçao football.
The discussions are part of the federation’s strategic policy plan for 2025–2029, a roadmap approved by FFK members in September last year aimed at strengthening football development, competitions and infrastructure.
FFK was represented at the congress by president Gilbert Martina and secretary-general Jan Peter Dogge.
The congress brought together football leaders from around the world to discuss governance, budgets and the future direction of international football.
One of the major announcements came at the conclusion of the gathering, when FIFA president Gianni Infantino confirmed he will seek re-election next year.
If elected, it would mark his third term at the helm of world football’s governing body.
The congress also unanimously approved FIFA’s 2025 financial statements and adopted the new budget cycle for 2027–2030, including the budget for 2027.
FIFA announced a total budget of 14 billion dollars for the new cycle, an increase compared to the previous 2023–2026 period.
For Curaçao, one of the most significant developments is the expansion of the FIFA Forward Programme, FIFA’s main global football development funding mechanism.
Under the new phase, known as FIFA Forward 4.0, funding will increase by 20 percent compared to the previous phase.
The program provides member associations with financial support for operational costs, football development projects, league growth and infrastructure improvements.
For smaller football nations like Curaçao, those funds are often essential for improving training facilities, youth programs and competitive structures.
The timing is especially important for Curaçao, which is currently experiencing one of the most historic moments in its football history following qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
That breakthrough has increased international attention on the island’s football program and raised expectations for further investment and long-term growth.
The FFK says its participation at the FIFA Congress forms part of a broader effort to ensure Curaçao maximizes that momentum and builds a stronger football foundation for future generations.