Home / Sports / McClaren Quits Jamaica After World Cup Snub
McClaren Quits Jamaica After World Cup Snub
19 Nov, 2025
Summary
- Steve McClaren resigned as Jamaica's coach after failing to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
- Curaçao, the smallest nation by population, qualified for the World Cup for the first time.
- Jamaica can still qualify for the World Cup via intercontinental playoffs in March.
Steve McClaren has stepped down as the head coach of the Jamaican national football team. His decision came immediately after the "Reggae Boyz" were held to a 0-0 draw against Curaçao, a result that prevented their direct qualification for the 2026 World Cup.
Curaçao's draw with Jamaica secured their top position in Group B of the CONCACAF zone, marking their historic first appearance in the World Cup. They will be joined by Panama and Haiti, who also secured their berths. Jamaica, finishing second in their group, still has a chance to reach the tournament via intercontinental playoffs.
McClaren, who previously served as an assistant at Manchester United, stated his resignation was in the best interest of the team, citing the need for fresh energy and a different perspective. The playoffs, scheduled for March in Mexico, will determine the final two World Cup spots from a pool of diverse international teams.
