WILLEMSTAD (DA) — Fred Rutten has stepped down as head coach of the Curaçao national team, clearing the way for Dick Advocaat’s expected return in a major shake-up around the squad.
Rutten’s decision followed open and constructive talks with Curaçao Football Federation (FFK) president Gilbert Martina, with the interest of Curaçao football, the players and the need for calm around the national team at the center of the discussions.
Rutten said he did not want a climate to develop that could damage healthy professional relationships among players or staff. He said it was prudent to take a step back because time is short and Curaçao must move forward.
“I regret how the situation developed, but I wish everyone a lot of success,” Rutten said.
The change comes as Deporte Awe can confirm that Kees Jansma also has left his role as press chief of the Curaçao national team, marking another significant change inside the team’s setup.
FFK decided during a meeting Monday that Advocaat will return as national team head coach. He is expected to be announced Tuesday during FFK’s press conference between 10 and 11 a.m. local time.
Tuesday’s press conference is expected to provide more explanation about the process from February 2026 until now. The national team selection will not be presented during the press conference.