Veteran Dutch coach Dick Advocaat has returned to lead Curaçao national football team ahead of the nation’s historic first appearance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
According to reports, Advocaat’s return comes after the departure of fellow Dutchman Fred Rutten, who left the role following internal disagreements and disappointing friendly results, including defeats against Australia and China.
Advocaat had previously guided Curaçao to its first-ever World Cup qualification before stepping away earlier this year due to family circumstances related to his daughter’s health.
With her condition reportedly improving, the experienced coach has now agreed to return and help prepare the team for the tournament.
Curaçao Football Federation president Gilbert Martina expressed full support for Advocaat’s comeback, stressing the importance of stability ahead of the World Cup.
Curaçao, the smallest nation by population ever to qualify for the World Cup with just over 150,000 residents, will compete in a tough group featuring Germany, Ecuador, and Ivory Coast.
The 2026 tournament, hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, would mark Advocaat’s third World Cup as a head coach after previously managing the Netherlands in 1994 and South Korea in 2006. At 78 years old, he is set to become the oldest coach in World Cup history.
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