Steve McClaren has resigned as Jamaica’s head coach after the team missed out on direct qualification to the World Cup.
Jamaica could have advanced to next summer’s tournament if they had won against Curacao, but a goalless draw meant their opponents finished top of their group and qualified for the tournament instead.
They are the smallest nation to ever compete in the World Cup.
Steve McClaren resigns as Jamaica head coach
McLaren said in a statement: “Over the past 18 months I have given my all to this job and this role.
“I accepted the weight and pride of this work with the utmost respect.
“Leading this team is one of the greatest honors of my career.
“But in football, results are important and tonight we fell short of our goal of qualifying from this group.
With a scoreless draw, Curacao qualified for next year’s World Cup.
“It’s my responsibility as a leader to step forward and be accountable and make decisions that are in the best interest of the team moving forward.
“After deep reflection and an honest assessment of where we are and where we need to go, I have decided to step down as head coach of the Jamaican national team.”
McLaren replaced current Republic of Ireland national team manager Heimir Helgrimsson in August 2024, managing a total of 24 games.
They won 13 of those games, but the team only lost once in World Cup qualifying, a 2-0 loss to Curaçao in October.
Who has already qualified for the World Cup?
So far, 42 teams have qualified for the 2026 World Cup, and the list is below.
When is the playoff draw?
The draw will take place at FIFA’s headquarters in Zurich, Switzerland, on Thursday at 12pm UK time. Follow us live on Sky Sports digital platforms.
