Fans block players' bus! Vitesse–De Graafschap derby called off amid scandal
The Gelderland derby between Vitesse and De Graafschap, which was scheduled to take place on Sunday, November 8, has been officially called off. The reason was a protest by the visiting team's supporters, who blocked the players' bus on the grounds of De Vijverberg stadium.
The match was due to kick off at 12:15, but De Graafschap's bus was unable to leave the car park. Fans chained the gates shut in protest against Arnhem authorities' decision to ban away supporters from attending the match.
Initially, 500 De Graafschap fans were expected to be allowed into the stadium, but the away section was later ordered to remain empty. This sparked outrage among supporters, who voiced their dissatisfaction with the actions of the city authorities.
The Dutch football association strongly condemned the incident. The KNVB stressed that such actions make it impossible to stage matches and harm clubs, players and other supporters.
The incident has been referred to the disciplinary authorities. On Monday, the league's management will discuss the situation, after which more information is expected on possible sanctions and a new date for the derby.
Jan Novak
Dailysports's expert
