Matches will be called off instantly and abandoned on the spot if fans throw or set off fireworks anywhere in the ground. The new zero-tolerance policy has been written straight into the league rules following talks between football bosses, police, and the government.
Justice Minister David van Weel confirmed the hardline stance after a cabinet meeting, making it clear that there will be no second chances or waiting around for crowds to settle. By removing any leeway for local mayors or club chairmen to negotiate, the government aims to send an unmistakable message that intimidation will not work and matches will simply be cancelled.
Football authorities are working on additional security steps to stop flares getting into grounds in the first place, while also looking at new tech to catch offenders.
The move follows a string of dangerous incidents in Dutch stadiums. A recent game between SC Cambuur and Feyenoord was only paused—despite Feyenoord hooligans setting off a heavy barrage of pyrotechnics that injured seven home supporters. By contrast, FC Utrecht’s clash with Go Ahead Eagles was abandoned after fans hurled fireworks onto the pitch and then pelted players with cups when play tried to resume.
@anp | NEWS BRAINPORT
