Anyone who crosses the line in a football stadium risks a national stadium ban from the KNVB. But how fair is the criminal procedure really?
According to those involved, things regularly go wrong when stadium bans are granted. Moreover, it is difficult for ‘convicts’ to appeal.
The KNVB issues penalties and fines. But there is no judge or session involved. It’s a paper process.
A session with the KNVB could make a big difference, says football lawyer Christian Visser.
“That requires something from the union, but you could build in a small threshold of 20 to 30 euros for people who want it. Why couldn’t you talk to someone? Such a stadium ban is quite drastic in someone’s life. It is known and researched that people accept their punishment better if they can tell their story.”
Do you agree with him? Should the KNVB organize a session if the union wants to issue a stadium ban? Let us know.