Dick Advocaat, the head coach of the Curaçao national football team, has stepped down from his position due to family circumstances, particularly concerning his daughter's health. The 78-year-old Dutch coach made this decision just ahead of Curaçao's debut at the FIFA World Cup finals, where they are set to face Germany. Advocaat's resignation comes as Curaçao prepares for upcoming matches in Group E of the 2026 World Cup against Ecuador and Ivory Coast.

In a statement by the Curaçao Football Federation (FFK), Advocaat expressed his deep commitment to family, saying he has always believed that family takes precedence over football. His decision reflects that sentiment, though he emphasized how much he will miss the people of Curaçao and his colleagues in the coaching staff. This move has significant implications for the team's preparations as they head into their first-ever World Cup appearance.

Advocaat also reflected on his career, noting that leading the smallest country to qualify for the World Cup is one of his proudest achievements. He expressed pride in his players and the coaching staff who believed in the team’s potential. His departure raises questions about who will succeed him as coach and how the team will adjust to this sudden change as they get ready for a historic moment in their footballing history.