Steve McClaren Takes Helm as Jamaica's Head Coach

Steve McClaren has been appointed as the head coach of Jamaica's men's national soccer team. The former England manager succeeds Heimir Hallgrimsson, who resigned after Jamaica's poor Copa America performance. McClaren aims to lead the team to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with improved qualifying chances due to the tournament's expansion.

Steve McClaren was hired as head coach of Jamaica's men's national soccer team on Wednesday, the Jamaican Football Federation (JFF) announced.

McClaren, a former England national team and Premier League manager, takes over from Heimir Hallgrimsson who resigned after Jamaica's disappointing performance at the Copa America tournament. McClaren has signed a two-year deal aimed at guiding Jamaica to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by Mexico, Canada, and the United States.

Addressing his new role, McClaren said, "I had no hesitation in accepting a position that is ideally suited to me at this stage of my career." He has previously worked with Jamaica as a FIFA Global Eco Analysis project technical advisor. "I quickly came to realize the potential that the country possessed. In the years since, that potential has grown significantly," he added.

With FIFA expanding the World Cup to 48 teams, Jamaica's chances of qualifying have improved. The Reggae Boyz will next face Cuba in the 2024-25 CONCACAF Nations League match on Sept. 6 at the National Stadium in Kingston.

(With inputs from agencies.)