Derksen warns uproar over Makkelie’s ban from Dieperink funeral

Johan Derksen told viewers that Danny Makkelie will not be allowed to attend the funeral of Dutch football journalist Rob Dieperink and warned that an unprecedented uproar is about to unfold. The statement was made during the Sunday evening edition of the programme Oranje.

Derksen, often referred to as “the Snor”, said the family of Dieperink has explicitly declared Makkelie unwelcome at the service. He added that a “rel” – a disturbance unlike any before – is looming, though he declined to explain the exact cause.

Valentijn Driessen entered the discussion by reading a farewell letter allegedly sent by Makkelie after the World Cup (WK). He described the letter as chilling, calling Makkelie “a smooth operator” towards FIFA and suggesting the referee had enjoyed a brief stint in America.

According to Driessen’s recollection, Makkelie refereed three matches during the tournament, hoped to reach the quarter‑finals or semi‑finals, and ultimately fell short. He nevertheless claimed to have had “a wonderful time in America”, thanking FIFA for the experience.

Derksen warned that even if Makkelie were to officiate the Johan Cruyff Shield, Dieperink’s family would object to any minute of silence being observed. Wilfred Genee reacted with disbelief, describing the situation as “very intense”.

Bas Nijhuis said he had heard nothing about the controversy and was watching the debate unfold without prior knowledge. Driessen later cited Hugo Borst’s column, noting that the issue was far more complex than a single incident.

He mentioned that the cause might not be limited to the shouting man at a Go Ahead Eagles training match, suggesting that Dieperink had meticulously prepared for the fallout. Derksen concluded that the story would eventually emerge publicly.

Wat er aan de hand is, wil Derksen niet duidelijk maken.