The Dutch Vitesse was deprived of 18 points in the Eredivisie due to licensing problems and dropped out of the top flight ahead of schedule. This was reported by the club's official website.
Photo: Getty ImagesAccording to the press release, Vitesse systematically failed to comply with licensing requirements due to financial problems. In particular, the club incorrectly submitted a financial report for six months and committed violations in its interaction with ING Bank and the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Change.
In addition, Vitesse's press service noted that the law firm Wladimiroff was unable to prove the presence or absence of links between the club and Russian oligarch Roman Abramovich, which also influenced the decision to impose the fine. In 2023, it was reported that Abramovich had secretly financed Vitesse.
Vitesse was deducted 18 points for licence violations. As a result, the club from Arnhem dropped out of the Dutch championship ahead of schedule - after the point penalty, it had -1 point after 30 rounds, with no chance of retaining its place in the elite.
"Vitesse will leave the elite division for the first time in 35 years. The club has consistently played in the Eredivisie since 1989, with its best achievement being third place in the 1997/98 season. Vitesse also won the Dutch Cup in 2017.
Vitesse's acting CEO Edwin Reintjes said the club would not appeal the punishment and would instead focus on retaining its licence and the opportunity to play in the second division next season.
"While this is a dark day for everyone who cares about Vitesse, it is a harsh reality. This punishment was inevitable. On the other hand - and I really want to make this clear to everyone - we are extremely pleased that we have been offered the opportunity to retain our licence. This was also hanging in the balance. However, the response from the Licensing Committee clearly shows that they have confidence in the new direction of the club. We are clinging to it and will continue to do so. I have said it before: Vitesse must not and cannot disappear!" said Reintjes.
