WILLEMSTAD – Guinness World Records has officially recognized Curaçao as the smallest country by population ever to qualify for the FIFA World Cup. The distinction follows Curaçao’s historic qualification for the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Curaçao secured its World Cup ticket on November 19, 2025, with a hard-fought 0–0 draw against Jamaica in Kingston. At the time of qualification, the island had a population of 156,115, setting a new benchmark in the Guinness World Records for the smallest nation to reach the world’s premier football tournament.
Under the guidance of head coach Dick Advocaat, Curaçao topped its group in the third round of CONCACAF qualifying. The team remained unbeaten throughout the campaign, recording three wins and three draws. The point earned in Kingston proved decisive, sealing qualification and sparking celebrations both on the island and among Curaçaoan communities abroad.
The Guinness recognition adds an extra international dimension to Curaçao’s achievement. Beyond qualifying for the World Cup for the first time in its history, the island now enters the global record books, underscoring how a small nation can compete — and succeed — on the biggest stage in world football.
For Curaçao, the milestone represents more than a sporting triumph. It is a moment of national pride that highlights resilience, organization, and belief, and places the island firmly on the global sporting map ahead of the 2026 World Cup.