Curacao manager Fred Rutten resigns days before World Cup

World Cup shocker: Curacao manager steps down just weeks before tournament.
On May 12, 2026, just a month before the World Cup, Fred Rutten unexpectedly resigned as Curacao's manager. The federation was expected to announce his replacement on the morning of May 13, but with the deadline to name squads ahead of the World Cup approaching, reports suggested they could return to Dick Advocaat, who had stepped down shortly after qualifying for the World Cup in November 2023 due to his daughter's health issues.
The Federashon Futbòl Kòrsou (FFK) issued a statement regarding Rutten's resignation, noting that it followed constructive discussions between him and the federation's leadership. Although Rutten was not the subject of these discussions, he decided to resign 'to protect stability and healthy professional relationships within the squad and staff.'
Rutten expressed regret about how events unfolded, stating, "There must not be a climate that harms healthy professional relationships within the team or staff. That is why stepping down is the right decision. Time is pressing and Curacao must move forward. I wish everyone the best."
FFK praised Rutten's professionalism and leadership, highlighting that he prioritized the team's interests above his own ahead of significant upcoming matches. This development was particularly surprising, as FFK president Gilbert Martina had previously referred to Rutten's hiring as 'the circle of life,' given his involvement in securing Advocaat's role in 2023.
Martina recounted a meeting with Rutten in June 2023, where Rutten reflected on his family's advice against taking the job at that time, citing concerns over his mental and physical health. During that conversation, he recommended Dick Advocaat for the position. Under Advocaat's management, Curacao made history by becoming the smallest nation, with a population of approximately 158,000, to qualify for the World Cup.
Rutten, who oversaw two matches as head coach, faced losses against Australia and China, with the team conceding seven goals while only managing to score once. While the Blue Wave are not expected to make a significant impact at the World Cup, it was reported that the tactics employed during Rutten's brief tenure raised concerns among players, leading to calls for a change as the tournament neared.