The competition in the Women’s Eredivisie has been temporarily halted due to the government’s corona measures, the KNVB reports after consultation with the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport. The government is of the opinion that the Women’s Eredivisie does not fall under the earlier decision and therefore only opts for the Eredivisie and Kitchen Champion Division. The KNVB accepts the explanation, but ‘regrets the status of top women’s football in this’. According to the authorities, the tournament for the TOTO KNVB Cup may proceed as a professional football competition, it is reported.

“The need for stricter measures throughout society is clear”, says Jan Dirk van der Zee on behalf of the KNVB management. “We are also satisfied that, after all the strict precautions taken by professional football, the continuity of the Eredivisie and Kitchen Champion Division is not at risk. However, we find it disappointing that the Women’s Eredivisie has not been included in this decision. The Netherlands has 160,000 female football players. and the Women’s Eredivisie is the top level, with which we also make an international statement.

“In the Women’s Eredivisie, 11 of the 24 selected OranjeLeeuwinnen play, who will play for our country on 23 and 27 October, but who are now not allowed to play matches with their club. The women of Ajax and PSV play in the Champions League and must also be able to fully prepare for it. That is why we will continue to fight for the position of top women’s football and will continue to discuss this with the Ministry (VWS) in the coming weeks. “

In today’s consultation, clarity was also provided about participation in international club football. In view of the decision to allow Eredivisie and Keuken Kampioen Division to continue playing (without the public), permission is also given to participate in the Champions League and Europa League. In contrast, the Under-21 and Under-18 leagues have also been shut down.

The TOTO KNVB Cup is allowed by the authorities. Amateur clubs also participate in that tournament. Because of this circumstance, it has been decided to play the matches between professional football clubs on 26, 27 and 28 October. Cup matches involving amateur teams will be postponed to December 1 and 2. The possible complications of these shifts are still being discussed internally at the KNVB.