Fireworks incidents rise inside Dutch football stadiums

The number of fireworks incidents inside Dutch football stadiums rose from 27 to 39 in the 2025-26 season, according to police figures. The total number of incidents in professional football barely changed, edging up from 363 to 365.[1]

Police figures also show a slight rise in repeat offenders. The largest group of suspects was aged 19 to 25. The police said the figures called for continued attention, including targeted action against people and groups who misbehave, prevention and support to help clubs respond.[1]

Peter Holla, a member of the Football and Safety steering group, said the impact of football violence by a small group remained significant and disruptive. He singled out fireworks and discriminatory chants, and said cooperation between clubs, the Dutch Football Association (KNVB), municipalities, police and prosecutors was crucial.[1]

The KNVB reported that stadium bans fell from 887 in 2024-25 to 704 in 2025-26. Bans specifically for fireworks dropped from 79 to 54. The association attributed the overall fall partly to fewer people being involved in incidents, including as a result of improved stadium camera systems.[1]