KINGSTON, Jamaica — A familiar figure could be on the sidelines as Jamaica faces one of its most crucial footballing battles in recent history. Rene Simoes, the man who masterminded the Reggae Boyz’s historic 1998 World Cup qualification, has reportedly expressed interest in returning to the helm for the March 2026 intercontinental play-offs.
At 72, the Brazilian tactician is understood to have the support of several veterans from the France ’98 squad and has made his intentions known to the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF), according to internal sources.
The head coach position became vacant earlier this week following the abrupt resignation of Steve McClaren. The Englishman stepped down after a frustrating 0-0 home draw with debutants Curaçao, a result that saw Jamaica finish second in their group with 11 points—just shy of direct qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.
Jamaica must now navigate a treacherous two-match playoff route. First, they’ll face New Caledonia in Mexico this March. Victory there would pit them against the Democratic Republic of Congo for the final ticket to the tournament.
Simoes remains a polarizing figure in Jamaican football. His first stint cemented his legacy after guiding the Boyz to the global stage in 1998—where they notched a win over Japan after losses to Croatia and Argentina. But his second tenure was less successful. In 2008, amid a faltering campaign and a string of poor results, he was dismissed by then-JFF President Captain Horace Burrell.
Despite that history, the current crisis has reignited calls for a seasoned leader capable of steadying the ship under pressure. Simoes’ supporters argue that his deep familiarity with the Jamaican football landscape, coupled with his motivational style, could reinvigorate a squad reeling from its latest setback.
Meanwhile, the JFF is expected to announce an interim head coach imminently. Among the names circulating is Rudolph Speid, coach of reigning Premier League champions Cavalier FC and chairman of the JFF’s Technical Committee. Speid has played a central role in recent coaching transitions, including the appointments of Heimir Hallgrímsson and Steve McClaren—both of whom eventually departed under pressure.
With the play-offs looming and public sentiment fragile, the JFF faces a defining decision: embrace a symbol of past glory or chart a new course under domestic stewardship. Either way, March 2026 will test Jamaica’s footballing resolve like never before.
