Robert Maaskant appointed Tuvalu national football coach

Robert Maaskant, the 57-year-old former coach of NAC Breda and FC Groningen, has been officially presented as the new head coach of the Tuvalu national football team. During his presentation in Roosendaal, Maaskant clarified that he is not receiving a salary for the twelve-month contract, though his travel and expenses will be reimbursed.

Maaskant stated that his decision was driven by the experience and the opportunity to raise awareness for Tuvalu, a Pacific island nation threatened by rising sea levels due to climate change. He intends to use his platform to highlight these environmental issues, including participating in a United Nations climate summit in Turkey.

The technical staff will include Kew Jaliens, a former Dutch international, as assistant coach, alongside Thijs Matla, Nabil Alefaio, and Pasene Siale. The project also aims to support Tuvalu's ambition to join FIFA.