WILLEMSTAD – A major youth football event will kick off in Curaçao this weekend as the Fundashon Bicentini WK 2026 tournament gets underway, bringing together dozens of teams from across the island.
The tournament, inspired by the 2026 FIFA World Cup, will feature 48 teams and a total of 104 matches played over several weeks. Each participating team is linked to a country that has qualified for the upcoming World Cup, adding an international element to the competition.
Curaçao Youth World Cup program from Streets to the Stadium
The official opening ceremony is scheduled for April 18 at Brionplein. Group-stage matches will be played on April 19 and 26 at the SUBT Stadium, followed by knockout rounds in May. The finals are set to take place on June 7.
According to organizer Remko Bicentini, the initiative goes beyond football. “The focus is not only on the sport, but on development and opportunities for children,” he said.
The tournament includes participants from primary schools, neighborhood teams, and various communities across the island, including vulnerable areas. Organizers aim to use the event to boost self-confidence and provide visibility and opportunities for young players.
In the lead-up to the tournament, participants had the chance to interact with former international footballers from countries such as Argentina and Netherlands. During a friendly match at Mari Pompoen, children played against these “Legends,” offering a unique experience ahead of the competition.
Organizers say the tournament is designed to use sport as a tool for personal growth and social development. “It’s not about winning or losing, but about participation and progress,” Bicentini emphasized.
The event is expected to draw significant attention as it combines sport, community engagement, and youth development in one of the island’s largest grassroots football initiatives.