Curaçao Football Steps into the Global Spotlight at FIFA Summit – FFK

Jun 19, 2025

Curaçao Football Steps into the Global Spotlight at FIFA Summit

Miami, June 17, 2025 – At the FIFA Summit in Miami, held on June 16 in connection with the FIFA Club World Cup, FIFA President Gianni Infantino held a bilateral meeting with Gilbert Martina, the newly elected president of the Curaçao Football Federation (FFK). Curaçao Football Federation was represented by Mr. Kenneth Bernabella, board member of FFK and Mr. Gilbert Martina, President of FFK.

The summit focused on key global developments in football, including the explosive growth of the FIFA Forward program, investments in women’s and youth football, and new initiatives like FIFA Series and Matchmaking. Following the plenary session, Mr. Infantino and Mr. Martina discussed the strategic future of football in Curaçao.

President Martina emphasized the need for deep structural reform, professionalization, and the recruitment of qualified leadership within FFK. He also introduced his upcoming book, Healthy Minds – Healthy Nation, which resonated strongly with Mr. Infantino, who recalled similar challenges faced by FIFA in the past.

Key points from FFK’s new 2025–2029 strategy were presented, focusing on:

Developing coaches, referees, and club leaders
Strengthening youth and women’s football
Expanding football infrastructure nationwide

President Infantino shared on Instagram:
“I had a fruitful meeting with the new president of the Curaçao Football Federation, Gilbert Martina, to discuss football development in his country. The national team is performing well in the 2026 qualifiers, and I hope to attend one of their matches later this year. FIFA will continue to support them through our development programs.”

President Martina thanked FIFA leadership for their trust and support since the recent transition in April 2025.