On Tuesday, April 21, 2020 the Dutch football federation, KNVB, announced its intention to call an end to the season, subject to discussions with UEFA. This is as a result of the government’s decision to extend a ban on large gatherings until September due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The federation’s statement reads “The professional football committee intends to not continue to play the 2019/20 competition. The KNVB will consult UEFA, after which a decision will be taken. Football clubs and other stakeholders will meet on Friday, 24th of April to discuss the issue. “There will be no matches before September 1,” the statement added.
The KNVB has pointed out that matches behind closed doors will be impossible as they are considered events that require a permit and police presence. The top-flight Eredivisie and second division have been suspended since March 12.
After holding a videoconference with its 55 member associations on Tuesday, European football’s governing body UEFA made “a strong recommendation” to finish domestic competitions. It, however, added that “some special cases will be heard once guidelines concerning participation to European competitions — in case of a canceled league — have been developed.”
UEFA said any decisions would be announced after its Executive Committee meets on Thursday. Before that, it was due to meet with the powerful European Club Association, ECA, and the European Leagues grouping, which represents nearly a thousand clubs in 29 countries, on Wednesday.
There are eight rounds of matches left in the top division, with defending champions Ajax ahead of AZ Alkmaar on goal difference. The Dutch Cup final had been scheduled for April 19.
Hattip to Barrons
