Desperate Dutch team Vitesse Arnhem turned to crowdfunding in a bid to retain the club’s license to play in the second division next season, raising more than €1 million as of Friday, with the club’s players donating their salaries to the cause. .
Vitesse were relegated from the top flight for the first time in 35 years this season after an 18-point deduction imposed by the Dutch football association for persistent breaches of the conditions of their license and for providing incorrect information to the authorities.
Vitesse did not appeal the sanction but faces a race against time to retain its license to compete at a professional level next season.
Reports in the Netherlands say they have until the next licensing committee meeting on May 17 to meet certain criteria, with debts of €18.9 million ($31 million).
The club does not have to raise that amount, but must demonstrate that it has a sustainable plan for the future.
“Donations come from all corners,” Vitesse captain Marco van Ginkel said on the club’s website. “Of course, we as a group cannot be left behind.
“That is why we have all decided to make a salary sacrifice for the club. We also hope to make a good contribution. Let’s go for the two million!”
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