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Rutten Resigns; Curaçao Eyes 78-Year-Old Advocaat

5/12/2026

22 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Fred Rutten resigned as Curaçao head coach on May 11, 2026 after constructive talks with president Gilbert Martina.
Players and sponsor Corendon urged the federation to reinstate 78-year-old Dick Advocaat, who said his daughter's health improved and he is ready to coach, which would make him the oldest World Cup manager.
Curaçao will open Group E against Germany in Houston on June 14, 2026 after a warm-up versus Scotland on May 30.

History

Historical Context

In 1998 France hosted the FIFA World Cup, expanding the finals to 32 teams and staging 64 matches between 10 June and 12 July. The tournament’s high profile showed how seasoned managers could elevate smaller nations, a lesson that now guides Curaçao’s federation as it seeks an experienced foreign coach to boost its World Cup ambitions.

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Story summary

Fred Rutten resigned as Curaçao head coach on May 11, 2026 after constructive talks with president Gilbert Martina.
Players and sponsor Corendon urged the federation to reinstate 78-year-old Dick Advocaat, who said his daughter's health improved and he is ready to coach, which would make him the oldest World Cup manager.
Curaçao will open Group E against Germany in Houston on June 14, 2026 after a warm-up versus Scotland on May 30.

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