A nation of 156,000 people qualify for FIFA

The Caribbean island of Curaçao has achieved a historic milestone by qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, becoming the smallest nation by population ever to reach the tournament. With only around 156,000 residents, the island has managed to outperform countries many times its size, earning global respect for its progress and determination. The previous record belonged to Iceland, which qualified for the 2018 World Cup with a population of about 350,000, more than double Curaçao’s. For such a small nation, reaching the world’s biggest football event represents years of development, disciplined coaching, and strong national pride. Celebrations erupted across the island as fans gathered to honor the players who accomplished what was once thought impossible. For Curaçao, this achievement is bigger than sports; it is a moment of national unity, showing the world that talent and teamwork can come from even the smallest places on the map.