Municipality bans away fans for Volendam play-offs after post-match violence

Away supporters will not be allowed at FC Volendam and Ajax playoff matches scheduled this week in Volendam, following violent disturbances after FC Volendam's 2-1 loss to Telstar on Sunday. After the match, Volendam supporters sought confrontation with the police, trying to reach the Telstar supporters’ buses. Children and supporters were injured, and stones were thrown at a car where two women were sheltering.

The municipality of Edam-Volendam announced the decision Monday, saying away supporters will not be allowed at FC Volendam’s promotion/relegation play-off match against Willem II or at Ajax’s European qualification play-off matches against FC Groningen in Volendam. The ban would also apply to a potential final involving Ajax.

The municipality called the events “riots that had nothing to do with football” and said police, supporters, and local residents were affected.

“The triangle realizes this is a far-reaching measure,” the municipality said. “Still, excluding away supporters currently is necessary to ensure safety around the stadium, in the village, and in public space as much as possible.”

Ajax, which finished fifth in the Eredivisie, is competing in the playoffs for a place in the qualifying rounds of the UEFA Conference League. Because of a Harry Styles concert series at the Johan Cruijff ArenA in Amsterdam, Ajax is relocating its home matches to Volendam.

The decision has triggered strong reactions from clubs involved in the playoffs. FC Groningen said it is “outraged” by the ban on away supporters for its semifinal against Ajax and has involved the professional football competition board. The club is also reportedly considering taking formal steps to challenge the decision.

The measure also applies to the promotion/relegation final between FC Volendam and Willem II, should Volendam advance.

Willem II said it “regrets” the decision. The Tilburg club has also contacted the professional football competition board and has asked it to take a formal position. Willem II added that it is awaiting responses from the KNVB, the Eredivisie CV, and the Coöperatie Eerste Divisie before issuing a more extensive statement.