Why a Dutch club are taking the KNVB to court because of Eurovision

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Eurovision chaos

In what is likely to be the most bizarre story of the de Eredivisie Club FC Utrecht are taking preliminary relief proceedings against the Dutch football authorities the KNVB, because of a move to the play-off final between them and Feyenoord on Sunday.

So far, not so strange. However, the reason behind the move is because Rotterdam is hosting the European Song Contest on Saturday.

The city is unable to bring in a sizeable enough police force to manage both events.

A statement from Utrecht read:

FC Utrecht is instituting preliminary relief proceedings against the KNVB. The Eredivisie club from the Dom city is doing this following a statement from the football association about moving the final match from the play-offs to European football. Moving the final match is contrary to the regulations and FC Utrecht demands that the regulations are complied with.

3-0 forfeit

Theoretically, the club should be given a 0-3 victory because the home team have been unable to find a suitable time and location for the match.

The play-off final itself is to take part in the UEFA Conference League for next season. The winner would still need to qualify through the UEFA qualification route but the competition could be a good opportunity for some continental silverware for one of the clubs in addition to the associated prize money.

There is the possibility that over 6000 fans could be present at the De Kuip with the ‘home’ side have a huge advantage over their travelling opponents. Supporters broke into the ground with flares in their recent tie, further vibrant scenes will be expected at the weekend.