4/10/2026 | General
BOCA RATON, Fla. – The Curaçao Men’s National Team has selected Florida Atlantic University as its official training site and team headquarters during the FIFA World Cup 2026 set to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico this summer.
Curaçao’s men’s team, nicknamed the Blue Wave, will train in paradise, just 1.8 miles from the Atlantic Ocean, while preparing and competing in the World Cup.
“We’re thrilled to welcome the Curaçao Blue Wave to Florida Atlantic,” said FAU President Adam Hasner. “Hosting a World Cup team is an exciting opportunity, and we look forward to sharing the energy and spirit of our campus and South Florida community with Curaçao’s players and fans this summer. This is a unique chance to experience World Cup soccer firsthand while showcasing Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, and Palm Beach County on a global stage.”
FAU’s pristine campus and world-class facilities, along with Boca Raton’s ideal location and climate, made it an attractive host training site for participating nations. The proximity to three international airports and upscale accommodations and dining options further positioned Boca Raton and Palm Beach County as an ideal location to serve as team headquarters during the World Cup.
“Florida Atlantic is honored to be selected as a World Cup host training site and excited to welcome the Curaçao Men’s National Team here this summer,” said Vice President and Director of Athletics Brian White. “The selection is a testament, not only to our incredible facilities, but the world-class destination that Boca Raton has become. Boca is a soccer-rich community, and FAU’s history of championship success in the sport is deep-rooted under the leadership of women’s head coach Patrick Baker and men’s head coach Joey Worthen. I am grateful for the cooperation between our staff, our campus partners and our partners at the Palm Beach Sports Commission. This is a showcase for our programs, our facilities, our campus and our awesome hometown to the world.”
The Dutch Caribbean island nation of Curaçao, which is in the southern Caribbean Sea near Aruba, is making its FIFA World Cup debut in 2026. In November 2025, the Blue Wave topped their qualifying group to mark its historic qualification.
Beginning its FIFA World Cup 2026 participation on June 14 versus Germany in Houston, Curaçao also has group stage matches on June 20 versus Ecuador in Kansas City and June 25 versus Ivory Coast in Philadelphia.
Boca Raton will also serve as the hub for Curaçao’s fans and media, with community events and engagements still to be determined. The team is scheduled to arrive in the Palm Beaches in early June.
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