The KNVB is not afraid that the cabinet will temporarily halt professional football in the Netherlands as part of any stricter corona measures.
“It would be completely incomprehensible and implausible if we did not play football,” said director of professional football Eric Gudde on Sunday evening in the TV program. Studio Football.
Due to the significant increase in the number of positive corona tests in the Netherlands, it was already decided by the cabinet at the end of September that an audience was not allowed to be present at sports matches for at least three weeks, both at the amateurs and at a professional level.
Because the corona virus is still spreading, there is even talk of a possible lockdown, where everything will be completely shut down, just like in March.
“It is clear that the infections are increasing, and that tough measures must follow. But then you have to put your finger on the sore spot, and that is certainly not football”, said Gudde.
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Due to the corona measures, only a limited public was welcome at football matches before. (Photo: Pro Shots)
‘At least it should be possible to play without an audience’
The KNVB director pointed out that in the last round of play in the Eredivisie without an audience, and that “an incredible amount went well” in the prior rounds, when a limited audience was welcome.
“In my opinion you should at least be able to play without an audience, but there must also be a perspective for the entire event industry when the downward trend is set again.”
Gudde stated that the KNVB is in close contact with the cabinet and the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport, but that he has no indications that professional football should be concerned about new measures.
Due to international football, there were no matches in the Eredivisie this weekend. Coming Saturday, Ajax-sc Heerenveen will resume the competition.
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