Struggling Vitesse increases pressure on KNVB licensing committee

Vitesse urgently appeals to the KNVB's independent professional committee for licensing matters to approve entrepreneur Guus Franke's intended takeover. This would make obtaining a professional license easier.

In the event of a takeover by Franke, Vitesse says it can present a balanced budget, something that is not yet the case. "We understand that the licensing committee must and wants to make a well-considered decision," says general manager Edwin Reijntjes on the club website.

"We want that too, because both the club and the supporters benefit from a structural solution. However, we want to call on the licensing committee to make a decision on the takeover of Franke as soon as possible. He has now submitted all the requested documentation and he and his team are available day and night (as they have been), for any additional questions. That is also necessary, otherwise it will be a very difficult story for Vitesse."

Only option

Reijntjes indicates that a takeover of Franke is about the only option left. "The club's future has been hanging by a thread for far too long. I am convinced that with Guus - as the new owner - we can close this uncertain period without new debts and any involvement from Common Group. I know the licensing committee also finds this important, and I hope they want to move with us."

Earlier this year, Vitesse did not receive approval from the licensing committee for Common Group's acquisition of the shares. The committee doubted whether owner Coley Parry had the necessary capital. The American had already lent millions to the club since his presentation in 2022.

New deadline

Vitesse was granted another extension by the KNVB last Saturday to secure the professional license for next season. The new deadline is July 31 at 12:00. The appeals committee aims to decide by August 1 at the latest. If the green light is given, relegated Vitesse will play the first competition match against Telstar in the Keuken Kampioen Divisie on August 9.