Sven Jaecques becomes shareholder as he navigates Wouter Vandenhaute’s ego at Royal Antwerp
In an interview held in the main hall of Antwerp‑Central earlier this week, Sven Jaecques, 44, confirmed he has become a shareholder of Royal Antwerp Football Club while acknowledging the strong personality of media proprietor Wouter Vandenhaute. Jaecques said the partnership is “not about using Toby’s image, but about his knowledge and competence”. He added that learning the basics first is essential for any new investor.
From CEO to shareholder
Jaecques, who has been CEO of Royal Antwerp since the club’s recent takeover, explained that his decision to buy shares was driven by a desire to protect the club’s interests. “My only interest is Royal Antwerp FC. I stand for this club, its staff, its players, its supporters and the city,” he asserted. The move marks the first time the CEO has taken an equity stake since the acquisition.
Managing strong characters
When asked about Vandenhaute’s reputation, Jaecques replied, “Naturally he has an ego, but he does listen.” He recalled a family gathering where he “walked away” early, illustrating the tension that can arise when powerful personalities clash. Nevertheless, Jaecques believes the two can work together for the club’s benefit. Former football director Niels Poissonnier, Chef Voetbal at, was also present during the interview and noted that the discussion was “the first since the takeover”. Poissonnier highlighted the importance of separating the club’s image from individual fame, echoing Jaecques’s sentiment about Toby.
Financial backdrop
The club’s recent transfer activity has provided the budget for its ambitions. The sale of goalkeeper Senne Lammens to Manchester United for €21 million and the departure of forward Doumbia to Al‑Ittihad for €19 million secured the funds needed for a new stand. However, Jaecques revealed that more than €10 million of Doumbia’s fee must be allocated to the construction, limiting further investment.
Paul Gheysens, the previous owner, is said to have bought Antwerp as a business project but grew attached to the club. Jaecques said, “He is in pain about having to sell, especially now that Wouter Vandenhaute has joined.” He added that once the dust settles, he and Gheysens might share a pint together.
Future outlook
Looking ahead, Jaecques reiterated the club’s ambition to compete for the title within three years, a goal set after the double‑interview with Marc Overmars last September. He warned that the club cannot remain in a “permanent survival mode” and must balance debt repayment with modest reinvestment.
When pressed about the possibility of staying on as CEO after the share purchase, Jaecques smiled and said, “If I had a four‑year contract, I might not have walked away.” He concluded that honesty with staff and supporters remains his top priority.