Title: Ajax Fans Plan Protest on Leidseplein Amid Police Strike-Related Match Postponements
Subheading: Amsterdam Football Club’s supporters respond to match cancellations due to police strike actions.
Content:
Amsterdam, The Netherlands – September 13, 2024 – Ajax supporters are set to take to the streets of Leidseplein this Sunday to protest against the recent postponement of football matches, including the match between Ajax and FC Utrecht, due to ongoing police strikes.
The protest, organized by the Ajax Supporters Delegatie, a collective of various club supporter groups, is a direct response to the inconvenience and frustration caused by the strikes, which have led to the cancellation of key matches. The supporters’ group has expressed its discontent, saying they are completely fed up with the police protests during Ajax matches.
The match between Ajax and FC Utrecht was scheduled for Sunday but was canceled due to the absence of police personnel, who are on strike. The Amsterdam authorities cited concerns over the safety of the crowd and the players, as well as the maintenance of public order, as reasons for the cancellation. The Feyenoord and Ajax match was also canceled previously due to the police strike, while Ajax’s away match against NAC Breda was played despite the strike.
In response to these developments, Ajax expressed its disappointment. A statement from the club on social media highlighted the negative impact on their league standings, noting that the cancellations would leave them three games behind in the league after Sunday. The supporters’ clubs have called on fans to gather at Leidseplein at 2:30 p.m. to show their solidarity and discontent.
The police will be present for the demonstration, according to the Het Landelijk Actiecentrum Politieacties (LAC), the center for police demonstrations. A spokesperson for LAC said that the protest was expected to remain peaceful and that there were no plans to expand the protest to other events.
Local business owners along Leidseplein have expressed cautious optimism, anticipating a peaceful afternoon. Amsterdam bars and restaurants entrepreneur Won Yip noted that while the situation could escalate, it would be detrimental to the businesses if it did. He emphasized that any outbreak of violence could provide ammunition to the police for their strike actions.
Café Americain on Leidseplein also maintained a calm demeanor in the face of the announced protest, with a spokesperson stating that the only measure they could take was to bring their tables and chairs inside. They plan to keep a watchful eye on the situation and hope that the protesters will not approach their establishment.
This incident highlights the intricate relationship between sports, public safety, and labor disputes, as well as the potential impact on fans and businesses.
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