Makkelie calls for KNVB protocol overhaul after fireworks chaos

As a cascade of fireworks erupted from the Feyenoord-uitvak, referee Danny Makkelie halted the Cambuur‑Feyenoord clash and later said he hopes the KNVB will revisit its protocol following the incident.

The match was stopped after a massive fireworks display from the Feyenoord supporters’ section, and five people were injured by the stray pyrotechnics.

According to the existing protocol, different rules apply to supporters compared with players and officials, which allowed the game to be resumed despite the injuries.

Makkelie praised both teams for their conduct on the pitch, stating, "I must give a compliment to both teams, because on the field they behaved properly despite what happened." He added that he followed the protocol at the time.

He also explained that, although the protocol does not cover supporters, his personal feeling was to stop the match: "Personally I say stop, but I do not decide that. The policy is that it does not apply to supporters, and I have to consider public order, the KNVB and the mayor’s decision to continue."

De incident highlighted the need for a broader discussion, and Het protocol will be examined, Makkelie concluded, urging that such situations be addressed collectively in the future.