The Dutch FA (KNVB) have shared a cold-blooded reaction to the news of former Eredivisie club Vitesse officially losing their professional licence following a civil court case.
The KNVB's licensing committee revoked Vitesse's professional licence after the club had systematically circumvented and undermined the licensing system over long periods of time, despite previous commitments that this would no longer happen."
Vitesse decided to fight the decision in civil court, where a judge would determine if the KNVB's decision was correctly taken. The verdict was published a day after the summary proceedings and fell in favour of the KNVB, with the judge stating the KNVB's decision was regrettable but justified per the association's licensing rules.
'Painfully clear when a club fails to comply'
The KNVB shared a cold-blooded reaction to Friday's news in a statement on the football association's website.
"It has become painfully clear how significant the impact can be when a club systematically fails to comply with the licensing system," the KNVB opened.
"The loss of a professional football club's licence is a drastic measure, not only for the club itself, but also for the fans, sponsors, partners, employees and everyone else directly or indirectly involved with Vitesse. We understand very well that this is painful and a very difficult time for them."
KNVB lawyer Michiel van Dijk and KNVB commercial director Mark Boetekees before Thursday's summary proceedingsPro Shots Photo Agency / ddp USA / Profimedia
The KNVB go on to further emphasise the importance of the licensing rules and support the decision of the court.
"It is important to emphasise that the clubs, together with the KNVB, have drawn up rules to guarantee the integrity and continuity of the professional football competitions. These rules are monitored by the independent licensing committee and the licensing appeals committee. We fully support (the decisions of) these committees, and the court has also ruled that there is no reason to suspend the decisions of these bodies."
Also read: What happens to Vitesse now that the club lost their professional licence?
The KNVB will be available to Vitesse in case the club want to discuss their future with the association. "The coming period will reveal how things will proceed with Vitesse. If desired, the KNVB will consult with Vitesse on this matter."
The statement concludes with a heartfelt message to the supporters of the second-oldest professional club of the Netherlands, who will likely cease to exist after 133 years.
"We wish everyone who supports Vitesse strength in the coming period."