WILLEMSTAD - Curaçao’s historic qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to deliver a major financial boost to the island. According to national head coach Dick Advocaat, world football association FIFA will transfer more than ten million euros to the Curaçao Football Federation (FFK) for securing a place at the final tournament.
Advocaat described the sum as “extremely important” for Curaçao, noting that the island’s achievement has drawn widespread international attention. He said the injection of funding creates immediate opportunities for long-term development of local football.
The impact of Curaçao’s breakthrough has already been felt elsewhere in the region. Jamaica, which was eliminated as a result of Curaçao’s qualification, has dismissed its national team coach.
“A Turning Point for Curaçaoan Football”
Former international Hedwiges Maduro believes the financial reward could mark a turning point for sport on the island. He argues that significant investments in youth academies, coaching and infrastructure could broaden talent development for future generations.
“People shouldn’t underestimate how much money this is for Curaçao,” Maduro said. “It could influence whether young athletes choose baseball or football as their first sport.”
World Cup Draw Set for December 5
Curaçao will participate in the World Cup group-stage draw on December 5 in the United States, Mexico and Canada. The team has been placed in Pot 4, meaning it will face three stronger opponents in the group phase. A high-profile matchup against the Netherlands is also possible.
Curaçao’s qualification is widely seen as one of the biggest achievements in the island’s sporting history — and now also a financial milestone.