Velthuizen’s speech haunts Sneijder and Van der Vaart

Former Netherlands internationals Wesley Sneijder and Rafael van der Vaart still laugh about goalkeeper Piet Velthuizen’s first speech with the national team. Marco van Basten’s reaction during the speech remains etched in their memories.

Velthuizen’s introduction at the Netherlands national team facility went awry, triggering sustained amusement from Sneijder and Van der Vaart. The speech’s mishaps became a recurring joke among the group.

Van Basten, then assistant coach, was present during Velthuizen’s speech. His visible reaction contributed to the lasting anecdote shared by Sneijder and Van der Vaart decades later.

The incident dates back to Velthuizen’s early days with the Oranje. Sneijder and Van der Vaart often referenced it in interviews, highlighting its cultural impact within the squad.

Velthuizen later played for clubs including Vitesse, Heracles Almelo and AZ Alkmaar.