Dutch clubs push for tougher action against football riots

Dutch football clubs are urging authorities to pursue stricter legal consequences for fans involved in stadium violence, following a recent incident that halted the Ajax-FC Groningen match due to heavy fireworks.

The Eredivisie CV and Coöperatie Eerste Divisie issued a joint statement calling for “actual criminal prosecution” of individuals responsible for serious disturbances. The organizations said current penalties “are not sufficiently deterrent” and highlighted that in countries like England and Germany, perpetrators face prosecution and criminal records.

The clubs emphasized that violent incidents reflect broader societal trends and extend beyond stadiums. They argued that safety requires coordinated action from clubs, the Eredivisie CV, Coöperatie Eerste Divisie, the KNVB, police, prosecutors, and government authorities.

The Ajax-FC Groningen match at the Johan Cruijff ArenA was stopped after fans ignited fireworks. The stadium has filed a police report for multiple offenses, including trespassing, public violence, and arson.

Responding to the clubs’ appeal, the Public Prosecution Service (OM) in Amsterdam, which coordinates the national approach to football-related violence, said misbehaving supporters are already prosecuted and that prosecutors are demanding higher sentences.

A spokesperson said, “Investigations are underway in situations involving football-related violence. If the OM determines there is sufficient evidence, suspects are prosecuted and higher penalties are requested.”