Steve McClaren resigns as Jamaica coach after World Cup miss
Steve McClaren has resigned as Jamaica head coach after failing to qualify directly for the World Cup. Jamaica could have reached next summer's tournament had they beaten Curacao, but a goalless draw means their opponents finished top of the group and qualified for the tournament instead.
Steve McClaren has stepped down as Jamaica head coach after his side failed to qualify directly for the 2026 World Cup.
Jamaica needed a win over Curaçao to finish top of their group, but a goalless draw allowed Curaçao to claim first place and a spot at next summer's tournament — making them the smallest nation ever to reach a World Cup.
McClaren said he had given everything to the role over the past 18 months, carried the job with pride and respect, and considered leading the team one of the greatest honours of his career. He added that football is a results business, that the team fell short of the qualifying goal, and that as leader he must take responsibility. After careful reflection he decided to step down so the team can move forward.
McClaren took over from Heimir Hallgrímsson in August 2024 and oversaw 24 matches, winning 13. Jamaica lost only once in World Cup qualifying, a 2-0 defeat to Curaçao in October.
With Curaçao's qualification, 42 teams have now booked places at the 2026 World Cup. The draw for the play-offs will be held on Thursday at 12pm UK time from FIFA's headquarters in Zurich, with live coverage available on Sky Sports' digital platforms.
Sports World Zone Staff
Writing on International Football
