WILLEMSTAD – Federashon Futbòl Kòrsou (FFK) has announced that national team coach Fred Rutten has decided to step down as head coach of the Curaçao national football team.
According to the federation, the decision followed what were described as open and constructive discussions between Rutten and FFK president Gilbert Martina, during which the interests of Curaçao football, the players, and the need for stability around the national team were central.
In the statement, FFK stressed that Rutten himself was not the direct subject of the controversy surrounding the team. Nevertheless, the Dutch coach concluded that stepping aside was necessary to prevent further tensions.
“There should not be a climate that undermines healthy professional relationships within both the players’ group and the staff. Therefore, it is wise to step down. Moreover, time is pressing and Curaçao must move forward,” Rutten stated in the press release. He added that he regretted the course of events but wished the team success moving forward.
FFK praised Rutten’s decision, describing it as an act of leadership, integrity, professionalism, and responsibility toward the national interest of Curaçao football. The federation said the coach chose to place the broader interests of the team above his own position.
The resignation follows weeks of unrest within the national football program surrounding the future of former coach Dick Advocaat. Players, sponsors, and supporters had publicly pushed for Advocaat’s return after he stepped down earlier this year because of family health circumstances.
FFK recently resisted those calls and reaffirmed support for Rutten, arguing that Curaçao football could not depend on one individual alone. The situation led to growing public debate and internal tensions within the football community.
In its statement, the federation emphasized that throughout the entire process it had acted carefully, transparently, and in accordance with principles of good governance and existing agreements. FFK also noted that improving the federation’s image is one of its seven strategic objectives for the 2025–2029 policy period.
The federation confirmed that its board would meet later Monday to discuss next steps for the national team.
FFK said its primary focus now is restoring calm around the squad and continuing preparations for upcoming important matches as Curaçao approaches its historic participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
A press conference has been scheduled for Tuesday morning between 10:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m., during which FFK says it will provide additional explanation about developments surrounding the national team from February 2026 until now. The federation also confirmed that the national team selection will not yet be announced.