Smaller than the Isle of Man with deep Dutch influence: Curacao makes World Cup history
Caribbean island nation Curacao is making World Cup history at the 2026 tournament, the BBC reports. With a population smaller than the Isle of Man, the side is built around a generation of players shaped by deep ties to Dutch football. Their qualification run sparked widespread celebrations on the island.
Curacao, a Caribbean island with a population of around 155,000, has reached its first World Cup at the 2026 tournament, the BBC reports. With fewer inhabitants than the Isle of Man, the side ranks among the smallest nations ever to qualify.
The spine of the squad is built around players who came up through Dutch club football, a direct reflection of Curacao's long ties to its former colonial power. The BBC notes that long-term coaching arrangements and cross-club cooperation underpin the run.
Qualifying results triggered street celebrations in the capital Willemstad. Officials say the tournament gives the country a major visibility boost for tourism and trade. The BBC reports the Curacao Football Federation plans to keep investing in youth squads to consolidate the breakthrough.
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