78-Year-Old Coach Could Return to Lead Curacao at 2026 World Cup

The Football Federation of Curacao (FFK) has entered a new phase ahead of the 2026 World Cup after head coach Fred Rutten decided to resign from his position on Monday, May 11, 2025. This decision has sparked speculation about veteran coach Dick Advocaat potentially returning to lead the Curacao National Team.

Rutten's resignation was announced through the Curacao National Team's official X account. The federation stated this decision followed open and constructive discussions between Rutten and Federation President Gilbert Martina.

According to Sky Sports Netherlands, Rutten's departure paves the way for Advocaat to potentially guide Curacao during the 2026 World Cup finals. Advocaat's name has reportedly received strong backing from the team's dressing room and the federation's main sponsors.

Curacao's internal situation had reportedly intensified in recent weeks. Rutten faced significant pressure after some players and sponsors openly advocated for Advocaat's return. 

These circumstances ultimately led the Dutch coach to step down to maintain squad stability.

This decision also marks a drastic shift in the federation's stance. Just days earlier, specifically last Friday, FFK had firmly rejected demands from players and sponsors calling for Advocaat's reinstatement.

Nevertheless, the federation expressed respect for Rutten, emphasizing that they don't consider him the primary source of internal conflict within the national team.

"An atmosphere damaging the professional relationship between players and staff must not be allowed to develop," Rutten stated in the federation's official release via social media.

"Resigning is the wise decision. Time is pressing, and Curacao must move forward."

Dick Advocaat holds a special place in Curacao's football history. The 78-year-old coach played a pivotal role in the Caribbean nation's historic qualification for the World Cup last November.

However, in February 2026, Advocaat stepped down to focus on caring for his seriously ill daughter. Fred Rutten was subsequently appointed as interim replacement.

Dutch media now report that Advocaat's daughter's health is improving. This situation has made the senior coach open to returning and guiding Curacao on football's biggest stage. Overwhelming support from players in the dressing room is also cited as a key factor increasing his likelihood of returning.

If officially reinstated for the 2026 World Cup, Advocaat could make history as the oldest coach ever to lead a team in the tournament.

Curacao is placed in Group E and faces an immediate major challenge in their opening match against the German National Team in Houston on June 15.