After the Netherlands lost on penalties to Morocco, there was a surge in abuse on social media, especially against black players.
Published July 3, 2026
The Dutch Football Association (KNVB) has filed a complaint with prosecutors over racist messages posted on social media following the country’s World Cup exit.
On Monday, the Oranje lost in a penalty shootout to Morocco, leading to a surge in online abuse, particularly directed at black Dutch players.
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The KNVB announced on Friday that it would transfer the messages to the prosecutor’s office for further legal action.
“Unfortunately, it is never possible to fully detect and arrest all racist reactions, but the KNVB wants to send a very clear signal,” the association said in a statement.
“There are limits, and there are consequences for those who violate those limits.”
The three-time finalists suffered a 1-1 draw with Morocco in their Round of 32 match in Monterrey, Mexico, on Monday before losing on penalties.
According to KNVB, the three players who missed the penalty, Justin Kluivert, Quinten Timber and Crisencio Somerville, were subjected to “racist” abuse online after the match.
Premier Rob Jetten told reporters early Friday that he expected prosecutors to move forward with legal action to set an example.
What happened after the Round of 32 match was “of course completely unacceptable,” Jetten said.
“One moment they’re ‘our boys’. When they’re wearing orange shirts, you don’t know their color. Then someone misses a penalty and there’s outrage pouring out from every corner,” the Prime Minister added.
