Fred Rutten has departed his post as head coach of Curaçao just over a month before the Blue Wave's debut FIFA World Cup 2026™ campaign.
In February, the 63-year-old replaced Dick Advocaat, who stepped down for personal reasons, but on Monday the Curaçao Football Federation confirmed Rutten's exit.
"The Federashon Futbol Korsou (FFK) announced that Fred Rutten has decided to step down as head coach of the Curaçao national team following constructive discussions with the federation’s leadership," the FFK said in a statement. "Although Rutten himself was not the subject of the discussions, he chose to resign to protect stability and healthy professional relationships within the squad and staff."
Rutten was on the touchline for Curaçao's two matches during the FIFA Series 2026™ in March in Australia, where the Caribbean side suffered a 2-0 defeat to China PR and a 5-1 loss to Australia.
“There must not be a climate that harms healthy professional relationships within the team or staff," said Rutten. "That is why stepping down is the right decision. Time is pressing and Curaçao must move forward. I regret how things unfolded, but I wish everyone the best."
The FFK held a press conference on Tuesday and confirmed that they are in communication with Advocaat about the possible return of the 78-year-old Dutchman, who guided the Blue Wave to their historic qualification.
“On Monday, I contacted Dick Advocaat after Fred Rutten submitted his resignation on Sunday,” said federation president Gilbert Martina.