Football Manager and FIFAe have launched a special competition challenging players to guide the Curaçao national football team to success at the FIFA World Cup 2026. The Curaçao Challenge runs from the announcement until Saturday, June 27.
The contest is part of the celebration for the arrival of International Management and the officially-licensed FIFA World Cup 2026 in FM26. Participants must download a custom-built save file from FIFA.GG to take part. The challenge is open to FM26 players on PC, Mac, Steam, Epic, Xbox Game Pass and the Microsoft Store. A winner will be announced no later than Monday, July 27.
What is the Curaçao Challenge?
The competition revolves around managing Curaçao, the smallest nation by population and land area to reach the tournament proper in its 96-year history. The team topped their World Cup qualifying group in November 2025. The grand prize is a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Curaçao and the opportunity to meet the federation and national officials.
Players are encouraged to use the #FIFAeCuracaoChallenge hashtag on social media and upload their save file to FIFA.GG. This offers a unique chance for fans to immerse themselves in managing a national team on the biggest stage.
What is Curaçao's current reality?
The current reality for the real Curaçao team is challenging. They sit fourth in their World Cup group with just one point from three games. Their recent form is LDL, with the last result a 0-2 home defeat to Ivory Coast on June 25, 2026.
In total, Curaçao has scored one goal and conceded nine this season, resulting in a minus-eight goal difference. They trail group leaders Germany by five points. The full standings can be followed online.
What does this mean for FM26?
The launch of this challenge coincides with a major new feature in the game series. The integration of International Management allows players to manage full national teams in Football Manager for the first time. The official World Cup license adds authenticity to that experience.
For the Curaçao squad, it provides a virtual platform to continue their unlikely qualification story. Fans can check the current squad lineup and make their own tactical choices for the virtual final stage.
What are the next steps?
The challenge runs until the end of June, giving players ample time to craft their strategy. The winner will be announced just after the World Cup group stage concludes. In the real tournament, Curaçao must turn their form around, as the stats show a difficult start. Their upcoming fixtures will be important for their chances of progressing.
