Dutch Eredivisie club Fortuna Sittard’s aspirations of competing in European football next season have been extinguished due to a failure to meet UEFA’s licensing application deadline. Despite currently occupying a league position that could secure a play-off spot for the UEFA Conference League, the club will be ineligible to participate.
Fortuna Sittard, sitting ninth in the Eredivisie with two matches remaining, did not apply for the necessary UEFA licence before the stipulated April 8 deadline. In a statement, the club explained the oversight: “At that time, the club did not meet all the requirements, including the submission of an external auditor’s report in accordance with Uefa rules. This ruled out participation in the play-offs for European football in advance.”
The administrative error means that even if Fortuna Sittard maintains their current standing, which would typically grant them a chance to qualify for European competition, they will not be able to take part. The club has not featured in a European tournament since the 1998 Intertoto Cup.
Fortuna’s General Manager, Martijn Merks, expressed his regret over the situation. “It is disappointing that we cannot reward a great sporting season,” Merks stated. “However, we think it is important to be transparent. We are currently busy preparing for the new Eredivisie season and in the meantime we are continuing to build on the future sustainability of the club.”
Despite this setback, Merks conveyed optimism for the future, adding, “We expect to be able to meet the licensing requirements in the new season without any problems.” The focus for Fortuna Sittard now shifts to concluding their domestic season and ensuring future compliance with European competition regulations.
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