Dick Advocaat resigns ahead of 2026 World Cup, Curacao led by Fred Rutten.

Shocking news comes from Curacao National Team. Just about four months before the grand stage of the FIFA World Cup 2026 kicks off, Dick Advocaat has officially resigned from his position as head coach.

The FIFA website reported on Tuesday that the 78-year-old Dutch Coach chose to step down for family reasons. 

He stated he must give full attention to his daughter who is experiencing health issues.

"I've always said family comes above football. So this is the necessary decision. I will deeply miss Curacao, its people, and my colleagues," he said. 

This decision marks an emotional moment, especially since Advocaat had just written the greatest chapter in Curacao football history.

The Coach Who Made History

Since his appointment in January 2024, Advocaat led Curacao through 19 matches. Though his tenure was relatively brief, his legacy is monumental. He guided the nation of approximately 150,000 inhabitants to World Cup Qualification for the first time.

Curacao delivered impressive performances throughout the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers with an undefeated record. 

They are now recorded as the smallest population country to secure a spot in the biggest World Football tournament.

"I knew guiding the world's smallest country to World Cup qualification would be a career highlight. I'm proud of my players, staff, and federation members who always believed in us," Advocaat stated.

Curacao Football Federation President Gilbert Martina acknowledged Advocaat's immense contribution.

"We fully respect his decision. Dick has made history for our national team. Curacao will forever be grateful to him," Martina said.

Fred Rutten Takes the Baton

Without delay, the Curacao Football Federation appointed Fred Rutten as Advocaat's successor. The 63-year-old Dutch coach brings extensive European experience.

Rutten has managed FC Twente, served as assistant at PSV Eindhoven, and coached SBV Vitesse, FC Groningen, and Feyenoord. 

He also has international experience with RSC Anderlecht and Al Shabab.

Rutten fully recognizes the emotional context of his appointment.

"This is a tough period for Dick. I hope he and his family find strength. Dick is a football icon. It's an honor to continue his work. Curacao can expect equal commitment and dedication from me," he declared.

Daunting Challenge in the Group of Death

At the 2026 World Cup (June 11-July 19 in the United States, Canada, and Mexico), Curacao is drawn in Group E alongside European giants Germany, Ivory Coast, and Ecuador.

Their opening match against Germany is scheduled for June 14 in Houston, USA—a test for Rutten's new era.

Advocaat's departure leaves deep emotional imprints. Yet the baton now passes to Rutten. 

Amid historic euphoria and the pressure of the world's biggest tournament, Curacao enters a new chapter, determined to ensure their fairy tale extends beyond mere qualification.