Curaçao Recognized as Smallest Nation to Qualify for World Cup

Curaçao has officially entered the Guinness World Records as the smallest nation by population to qualify for the FIFA World Cup, achieving this milestone with a population of 156,115. This record was presented by Guinness World Records to Gilbert Martina, the president of the Curaçao Football Federation, on November 19, 2025, following their qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Curaçao surpassed the previous record held by Iceland, which had a population of approximately 350,000 during its qualification for the 2018 World Cup. The team, managed by Dutchman Dick Advocaat, finished at the top of the CONCACAF third-round qualifying group three, securing their place with three wins and six draws.

Their qualification was confirmed after a 0-0 draw against Jamaica on November 19, 2025. Curaçao is set to play its first World Cup match on June 14, 2026, against a yet-to-be-determined opponent, in a tournament co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.