WILLEMSTAD – Gilbert Martina says transparency and stability were the main reasons behind Wednesday’s press conference addressing the sudden coaching changes within the Curaçao national football team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Speaking during the press conference, Martina said the meeting had originally been scheduled simply to announce the preliminary World Cup squad. However, recent developments surrounding the coaching staff forced the federation to publicly explain the situation.
“We felt it was important to provide clarity and explain openly and honestly what happened behind the scenes,” Martina said.
According to the FFK president, former interim head coach Fred Rutten decided to step aside after expressing concerns about the team’s preparation and possible results in upcoming matches.
Martina explained that Rutten feared negative results during the preparation phase — including the friendly match against Scotland national football team on May 30 — could create major controversy shortly before Curaçao’s historic World Cup debut.
Rutten reportedly told the federation he wanted to avoid a situation where discussions over responsibility and coaching decisions would overshadow the team just days before the tournament.
“He said that discussion is not something you want right before a World Cup,” Martina explained.
Confidence in Return of Dick Advocaat
Martina also confirmed that discussions with veteran coach Dick Advocaat are progressing positively following his return to the national team setup.
The 78-year-old coach had earlier stepped away from the team because of the serious illness of his daughter, leading to Rutten’s temporary appointment.
“I informed him this morning that the decision has been made,” Martina said regarding Advocaat’s return. “I expect we will reach an agreement quickly.”
Martina stressed that he has full confidence in the situation moving forward and does not believe there is continuing unrest within the squad.
According to the FFK president, players were informed about the developments and reacted calmly to the decision.
“They have built a bond over the past two and a half years,” Martina said, referring to Advocaat’s relationship with the players. “For them, this decision is a logical one.”
Call for Unity Ahead of World Cup
Martina also used the press conference to call on the people of Curaçao to rally behind the national team as the island prepares for its first-ever appearance at a FIFA World Cup.
“Let us stand 100 percent behind our team,” he said. “Let’s reignite that Blue Wave.”
The Curaçao Football Federation hopes the return of Advocaat will restore calm around the squad after weeks of uncertainty and public debate involving players, sponsors, and supporters.
Curaçao will begin its World Cup preparations later this month with a training camp in Noordwijk before traveling to the United States for the tournament.
The team is scheduled to face Germany national football team in its opening World Cup match on June 14 in Houston.