Curaçao rehired legendary coach Dick Advocaat, who will become the oldest World Cup coach at age 78. The Dutch veteran, who led the Caribbean island team through qualifying, returned three months after resigning for personal reasons. His successor, Fred Rutten, faced backlash from players who preferred Advocaat’s leadership.

Federation president Gilbert Martina emphasized stability, stating, “Discussions are ongoing to ensure continuity.” Advocaat’s record could surpass Otto Rehhagel’s 2010 World Cup age of 71, marking his third tournament with three teams: Netherlands (1994), South Korea (2006), and now Curaçao. The expanded 48-team format grants Curaçao extra qualifying spots, though their World Cup journey faces challenges, including a tough friendly against Scotland. Martina noted, “Friction during coaching changes is natural but not the reason for Advocaat’s exit.”.