Vitesse Arnhem Hit with 21-Point Deduction as Woes Continue

Violations Detailed

According to the licensing committee, Vitesse’s actions fell short of their obligations. A statement read: It is up to Vitesse to obtain complete and correct information from a (prospective) shareholder before providing this information to the licensing committee. The discovery of the side letter resulted in a nine-point deduction.

Further penalties were imposed for financial reporting failures, including late or incomplete submissions for the 2022/23 annual figures, 2023/24 forecast, 2023/24 half-year figures, and the missed 2024/25 forecast deadline. These accounted for 12 additional points deducted.

The committee described the breaches as far-reaching violations of the integrity and continuity of professional football competitions.

License Retained, for Now

Despite the severity of the sanctions, Vitesse will retain its professional license. A licensing committee statement clarified: Revoking the license is not deemed opportune at this time, partly due to Vitesse’s proactive reporting regarding the side letter.

However, the committee warned that future violations could lead to more drastic measures. Vitesse must meet the set deadlines. Given the seriousness of the situation, license revocation remains a possibility, the statement added.

Looking Ahead

With the club already languishing at the bottom of the Keuken Kampioen Divisie standings with six points — now reduced to minus 15 — relegation is not a concern as the club cannot drop further. However, the financial burden looms large, with approximately €20 million in debt. Vitesse is actively seeking an investor to stabilise its future.