Advocaat Returns as Curacao Coach for 2026 World Cup

Veteran Dutch coach Dick Advocaat is returning to lead Curacao at the 2026 World Cup after successor Fred Rutten resigned, the Curacao Football Federation confirmed this week.

The 78-year-old Advocaat guided the Caribbean island nation to its historic first qualification for the tournament but stepped down in February citing his daughter's health issues. Rutten, also Dutch, took over but oversaw two heavy friendly defeats in March: 5-1 to Australia and 2-0 to China. The federation announced Rutten's departure on Monday following constructive discussions among officials, paving the way for Advocaat's comeback.

Curacao Football Federation president Gilbert Martina confirmed Advocaat's return in a message to AFP and at a Tuesday press conference. Martina attributed the change partly to a negative media campaign after Advocaat's daughter improved, though he denied reports of player unrest. Rutten, 63, explained his decision in a federation statement, saying, "A climate must not arise that undermines healthy professional relations, within both the squad and the staff. That is why it is wise to step down." He added, "Time is running out and Curacao must move forward. I regret how the...