Police and Dutch FA cautiously welcome plan to mix fans

Dutch police and football association KNVB have responded with cautious optimism to a new proposal from fans that aims to end the routine separation of home and away supporters during matches.

The initiative from the supporters association Supporterscollectief Nederland calls for fans to be allowed to mix freely outside stadiums and travel more easily to away games, without the strict segregation that has long been standard in Dutch professional football.

Patrick Fluyt from the ACP police union said the plan was ambitious but welcomed the initiative. “We’re fully in favour. It would also mean a free weekend for our colleagues again,” he told broadcaster NOS. “I just hope the supporters can show the self-discipline and persistence to make this work.”

The KNVB also expressed support for the long-term vision. “We have a constructive relationship with Supporterscollectief Nederland and fully support their end goal – diverse groups of supporters enjoying football together,” a spokesperson told NOS. “But the route to get there must take responsibilities, risks and timing into account.”

The Supporterscollectief has criticised the growing use of collective punishments in recent seasons. Last year, away sections in stadiums remained closed for 15 Eredivisie matches and 12 games in the second tier because of fan trouble.

“By choosing to mix fans outside stadiums, we will promote acceptance instead of hostility,” the organisation said.

Supporters argue that football-related violence has declined overall, except for a brief spike after the pandemic. At the same time, the organisation said, “the threshold for imposing harsh restrictions on fans seems to be getting lower.”