# Dutch Derby Postponed After De Graafschap Fans Block Team Bus Supporters prevented their own team from traveling to the GelreDome stadium in protest. - **Source:** [BBC Sport – Football](https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football) - **Published:** 2026-11-09 - **Topic:** [sports](https://brifing.si/c/sports) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/5f70990e-887b-41e1-bd68-23122dfa7e1e ## Derby Match Called Off The second-tier Dutch derby between Vitesse Arnhem and De Graafschap was cancelled on Sunday. De Graafschap supporters blocked their own team bus in Doetinchem, preventing the squad from traveling to the GelreDome. The Dutch Football Association confirmed the match will be rescheduled for a weekday slot later this season. ## Protest Against Away Ban The blockade was a direct protest against the decision to ban away fans from the fixture. Vitesse had prohibited visiting supporters following security concerns and previous disturbances during the 2025-26 season. De Graafschap fans expressed their anger by physically preventing the team from departing for the scheduled away match. ## Security Disputes and Conditions Vitesse had initially proposed an allocation of 500 away tickets, down from the standard 800. This offer was contingent on strict security measures, including the inspection of fan paraphernalia. Vitesse stated that De Graafschap supporters insisted on bringing items contrary to these agreed-upon conditions, leading to the total ban. ## Conflicting Club Perspectives De Graafschap rejected Vitesse's characterization of their supporters and the club's stance. While Vitesse cited police information and extensive consultations, De Graafschap claimed they did not recognize the picture painted by the Arnhem press release. Both clubs remain at odds regarding the specific security protocols that led to the ban. ## Official Disciplinary Action The Dutch Football Association (KNVB) condemned the blockade as intolerable behavior that harms the sport. Manager Jan Bluyssen stated the incident is being referred to disciplinary bodies for investigation. Potential sanctions against De Graafschap depend on the findings of this formal inquiry, which is currently being initiated by the association. ## Logistical Impact on Fans Vitesse director Willem van der Linden expressed deep disappointment, noting that 17,000 fans were expected at the stadium. After receiving news of the blocked bus, stakeholders met to assess the situation before deciding the match could not proceed. Players eventually entered the pitch to thank the home supporters present. ## Rescheduling the Fixture The KNVB confirmed the match must be replayed on a weekday, as weekend slots are fully occupied. The game will proceed under the same conditions as originally planned: with Vitesse supporters present but without any De Graafschap fans. Officials aim to finalize the new date within the current second period. ## Current Club Context Vitesse currently sits 10th in the league table, while De Graafschap holds 15th place. The two clubs are separated by less than 20 miles, fueling the intensity of the regional rivalry. Both teams are now awaiting further developments as the disciplinary process and the search for a new date begin. ## Sources covering this story - [BBC Sport – Football — Dutch Derby Postponed After Fans Block Team Bus](https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/cqy0r0lw4l5ro?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss) - [NOS Sport — KNVB Condemns De Graafschap Fan Protest Blocking Team Bus](https://nos.nl/l/2638554) --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._