The Netherlands Football Association (KNVB) is contemplating the removal of the offside rule in amateur leagues to curb the growing number of matches disrupted by disputes over decisions.

According to KNVB, eliminating offsides at lower levels, where club members rather than official linesmen flag matches, might reduce threats and violence. This change aims to address the increasing aggression seen in amateur football across the country.

Jan Dirk van der Zee, a director at KNVB, highlighted the necessity of addressing conflicts over refereeing decisions. He noted that the number of amateur matches halted due to disorder has risen significantly.

Rising Incidents of Violence

In the last season, the Dutch football witnessed 1,864 matches stopped because of violent incidents. This figure represents an 11% increase compared to the previous season and a 58% rise over five years.

"It is true that it is a relatively small number compared to the almost 780,000 matches that are played annually, but we are not going to trivialise it," van der Zee stated during a news conference on Wednesday.

"We have a problem, and we want to eradicate it. I do not rule out that we will one day stop using assistant referees," he told reporters.

The KNVB's consideration of such a significant rule change underscores their commitment to reducing violence and ensuring safer environments for players and officials alike. The move could set a precedent for other football associations facing similar issues.