Steve McClaren steps down as Jamaica fail to reach World Cup

Jamaica head coach Steve McClaren quit on Tuesday following the Reggae Boyzs inability to gain direct entry to the 2026 World Cup.

McClaren, appointed as Jamaicas manager in July of the previous year, shared his choice soon after his squad ended in a goalless stalemate against Curacao during their last qualifying match.

The team required a victory at the National Stadium in Kingston to earn a spot in the World Cup, yet they could merely observe as modest Curacao resisted and progressed to the event in their place.

This marked yet another disappointing campaign in qualifiers for McClaren, who previously could not guide a talented England side to the 2008 European Championship.

I have poured all my efforts into this position, into this duty, McClaren remarked in a statement at the beginning of Tuesdays post match press briefing.

Guiding this squad has truly been among the highest privileges in my professional life. However, football demands results and this evening we have not achieved our target, which was advancement from this group.

It falls to the leader to come ahead, accept responsibility, and choose actions that serve the teams best interests for future progress.

Following thorough consideration and a candid review of our current position and future needs, I have chosen to resign as head coach.

The 64 year olds departure has left Jamaica urgently seeking a new manager ahead of next years Inter Confederation play offs, featuring teams such as Iraq, Democratic Republic of Congo, New Caledonia, Bolivia, and Suriname.