Curaçao enters Guinness World Records as smallest nation at World Cup

The Caribbean island nation of Curaçao has achieved a remarkable feat, entering the Guinness World Records as the smallest country by population to ever qualify for the FIFA World Cup. This recognition comes just days after the team's debut in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Guinness World Records officially presented the certificate to the President of the Curaçao Football Federation, Gilbert Martina, in Houston, USA. At the time of qualification, Curaçao's population stood at 156,115, significantly less than the approximately 350,000 people Iceland had during its 2018 qualification, which previously held the record. The official statement from GWR highlighted Curaçao's achievement, noting their qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup occurred on November 19, 2025, in Kingston, Jamaica.

The team, managed by Dutchman Dick Advocaat, secured their place in the global tournament by finishing at the top of their CONCACAF third-round qualifying group. They achieved this with three wins and three draws in their six matches. The "Blue Wave," as the team is known, completed their fairytale run with a 0-0 draw against Jamaica on November 19, 2025, solidifying their World Cup spot.

Curaçao played their first match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, on Sunday, June 14, where they lost 7-1. The tournament marks a historic moment for the small island nation, showcasing their achievement on the world's biggest football stage.