WILLEMSTAD – Kees Jansma has ended his work as press chief for the Curaçao national football team following the controversial departure of national team coach Fred Rutten.
According to Jansma, he cannot support the manner in which Rutten’s departure was handled.
Earlier on Monday, Federashon Futbòl Kòrsou (FFK) announced that Rutten had stepped down as head coach after discussions with the federation leadership, during which the need for “calm around the national team” was said to be central.
Kees Jansma (r)
In the official statement, Rutten himself said he wanted to prevent a climate that could “undermine healthy professional relationships” within the squad and technical staff.
Shortly before Rutten’s resignation became public, it emerged that former coach Dick Advocaat would return to lead Curaçao during the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup.
According to Jansma, the football federation had initially indicated that it intended to continue with Rutten, but later reversed that decision after pressure from players and sponsors calling for Advocaat’s return.
Particularly sensitive is the reported role of main sponsor Corendon.
The travel company reportedly indicated that it would end its sponsorship after the World Cup if Advocaat did not return as coach. Jansma believes a sponsor should not have decisive influence over sporting decisions within a national team.
The developments have intensified the turmoil surrounding Curaçao football only weeks before preparations accelerate for the country’s historic first participation in a FIFA World Cup.
In its official communication, FFK emphasized that the federation acted “carefully, with integrity, and in accordance with existing agreements.” The federation also stated that stability, professionalism, and transparency remain central principles within Curaçao football.