Sunday's Eredivisie match between Ajax and FC Groningen was stopped after six minutes because a large number of fireworks were set off in the stands. The F-Side, Ajax’s hardcore supporters group, had announced they would light fireworks in memory of an F-Side member who died last week. Moments after play resumed, the same group threw fireworks onto the field, causing referee Bas Nijhuis to call off Sunday’s match entirely.

Ajax issued a statement on Sunday distancing themselves from the actions of their fans and pledging to take disciplinary measures against those responsible. The club highlighted that security had been strengthened after fireworks were also ignited during a recent home game against Heerenveen, including the use of sniffer dogs and additional searches.

However, on Monday, Ajax CEO Menno Geelen explained how the situation deteriorated so badly on Sunday.

"It appears that an emergency exit was forcibly opened from inside, allowing a large number of people without tickets and carrying many fireworks to enter the stadium," Geelen stated on the club’s website.

"We are currently trying to identify who they were and how this breach was possible so we can take appropriate action."

The club will provide compensation to the thousands of other fans who attended the match on Sunday.

"It was a dark night for all football lovers, especially for Ajax supporters. We sincerely apologize to everyone, particularly those at the stadium. Their safety was compromised, and we failed to deliver the experience we intended," Geelen said.

Ajax-FC Groningen rescheduled

The remaining 84 minutes of the Ajax versus FC Groningen match will be played behind closed doors on Tuesday, December 2nd, at 14:30 CET.