Dick Advocaat Takes the Helm for Curacao Again
At 78 years old, Dick Advocaat is set to manage Curacao at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The seasoned Dutch coach returns to the role after his previous stint from January 2024 to February 2025, during which he guided the team to their historic first-ever World Cup qualification. Gilbert Martina, president of the Curacao Football Federation, confirmed Advocaat’s reappointment. This move became possible after former head coach Fred Rutten stepped down from the position.
Advocaat’s Coaching Legacy
Born in The Hague, Advocaat boasts a long and successful managerial career that began in the 1980s. He has worked across multiple top-flight leagues, including those in:
- the Netherlands
- Scotland
- Germany
- Russia
- England
- Turkey
He has also coached several national teams, such as:
- the Netherlands
- the United Arab Emirates
- South Korea
- Belgium
- Russia
- Serbia
- Iraq
Throughout his career, Advocaat has won titles with clubs like PSV, Rangers, and Zenit St. Petersburg, where he claimed the UEFA Cup and the UEFA Super Cup.
The 2026 World Cup will mark the third tournament appearance for Advocaat as a manager. His first was in 1994, when he led the Netherlands. Curacao has been drawn into Group E, facing Germany, Ivory Coast, and Ecuador. Their opening match is scheduled for June 14 in Houston, followed by games in Kansas City and Philadelphia.
Advocaat's return to the Curacao bench highlights his vast experience and ability to work with teams at various competitive levels.
Curacao’s participation in the World Cup is a landmark moment for the island nation’s football, as this will be only their second appearance on the global stage. Advocaat now has the chance not only to extend his own impressive career but also to make a lasting impact on the development of soccer in Curacao, potentially boosting the sport throughout the region.