Amsterdam, Netherlands – Ajax supporters are set to demonstrate on Leidseplein in Amsterdam onSunday afternoon, protesting police strikes that have disrupted their team’s matches. The demonstration, organized by Ajax supporters’ associations, is scheduled to begin at 2:30 p.m.
The protest stems from the cancellation of Sunday’s match between Ajax and FC Utrecht, a decision made by the Amsterdam triangle –consisting of the deputy mayor, police, and public prosecutor’s office. The cancellation was due to a planned police strike, announced by the police union last Friday in response to ongoing disputes over early retirement benefits. The triangle deemed the absence ofpolice a safety risk, unable to guarantee the security of players, fans, and public order.
This marks the second Ajax match cancelled due to police action. Previously, Rotterdam mayor Ahmed Aboutaleb cancelled the September 1st match between Feyenoord and Ajaxin De Kuip due to the strike.
The Ajax Supporters Delegation, representing various fan groups, expressed frustration with the repeated targeting of Ajax matches by police action. They argue that the team is now three matches behind in the competition, with rescheduled matches taking place at inconvenient times.
Ajax’s press officer echoed the sentiment, calling the strike a victimization of the club and expressing disappointment that the match couldn’t proceed with additional security measures.
Despite the planned demonstration, the police will be present on Leidseplein. The National Action Center for Police Actions (LAC) stated they prioritized the match over demonstrations, with no plans to expandthe protest.
Leidseplein businesses are expecting a peaceful afternoon with the Ajax fans, with no anticipation of riots. Won Yip, an Amsterdam bars and restaurants entrepreneur, emphasized the potential repercussions of any unrest, stating it would be very stupid for fans to cause trouble.
Café Americain,another Leidseplein establishment, remains calm, preparing for the demonstration by moving tables and chairs indoors. They are monitoring the situation, hoping the protesters won’t disrupt their business.
This story will be updated as events unfold. Please check back for the latest information.
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