VA takes measures after disturbances at Almere event

Following disturbances at a kickboxing event in Almere, the Vechtsportautoriteit (VA, the Dutch Combat Sports Authority) has imposed suspensions and disciplinary measures on athletes and others involved. The organiser of the gala that got out of hand may not organise events for the next six months and will then be placed under stricter supervision.

Disturbances recently took place at a combat sports gala. After the main bout, part of the audience misbehaved. The ring was stormed and chairs and tables, among other things, were thrown, injuring several people. Partly to prevent the danger this caused to other visitors and ring staff, the athlete whose fans misbehaved en masse will be excluded from competing in the Netherlands for one year.

After another bout, a confrontation took place between an athlete and his cornerman on the one hand and supporters of the opponent on the other. The case of this athlete will be taken up by our disciplinary prosecutor. In addition, this athlete will also be excluded from competing for one year to prevent this danger from recurring. The case of another fighter who misbehaved towards an official after his bout will also be referred to the disciplinary prosecutor, and this athlete will be excluded from competing for three months.

The promoter of the event demonstrably fell short in organising security, which contributed to the disturbances. Because of these failings, the organiser's promoter licence will be revoked for six months, after which the promoter will be under stricter supervision by the Vechtsportautoriteit at the next two events.

The VA carefully investigated the disturbances and gave everyone involved the opportunity to respond. Following this measure, the sanctioned athletes will still be given the opportunity to defend themselves before the disciplinary committee.