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Dutch referee ‘banned for life’ after being spotted celebrating title with winning team
A Dutch referee, Jan Smit, has been banned for life after a controversial match where he gave four red cards to one team and then celebrated the title win with the opposing team. The incident occurred during a fourth-division game between St. George and SV De Valken.
During the match, Smit handed out four red cards to SV De Valken players and added 15 minutes of extra time, which led to St. George scoring the winning goal. The extended stoppage time and the numerous red cards sparked outrage from the SV De Valken team and their fans.
However, what happened after the final whistle has led to Smit’s lifetime ban. The referee joined the St. George team on stage, singing songs and lifting the trophy, clearly celebrating their title win. A video of the incident has circulated on social media, showing Smit’s enthusiastic participation in the celebrations.
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The Dutch Football Association (KNVB) has responded swiftly, banning Smit from officiating any further matches. According to KNVB spokesperson Daan Schippers, “We have received several complaints after Sunday’s match. We expect a neutral attitude from a referee, and both teams should be treated with respect. That is where this attitude belongs.”
Smit has responded to the ban, stating that he doesn’t believe he was at fault. In an interview with NH Nieuws, he said, “I wasn’t partying with the players at all. I just sang a song and held up the bowl once. That’s the only thing. I find it too sad for words that the KNVB is removing me for that reason. It’s laughable. KNVB has not done any research and only watched one video.”
This is not the first time Smit has been in controversy. He was previously suspended in 2021 for “improper behavior.” The lifetime ban marks the end of Smit’s refereeing career, and the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining neutrality and professionalism in sports officiating.
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