Marianne van Leeuwen Welcomes Kansas City Ahead of World Cup

KNVB director Marianne van Leeuwen arrived in Kansas City and was greeted by the mayor. The mayor said he had never worn another country's shirt but appeared in a bright orange shirt. The reception occurred on the eve of the opening match of the biggest World Cup ever. Van Leeuwen recalled the Netherlands' One Love captain's armband campaign in Qatar three and a half years ago. She said the campaign taught that Dutch intentions can be interpreted differently abroad. She added that the experience has made the KNVB more cautious. Van Leeuwen affirmed that the association remains socially engaged but will not act as a preacher pointing a finger. She stressed that if the Netherlands takes a political stance, the government, not the football federation, must do so. She ruled out statements on the Trump administration's visa policy or on excessive ticket prices for the World Cup. Van Leeuwen spent the first days with the Dutch squad in a carefully chosen base camp in Kansas City. She noted the team has visited the site six times and evaluated many hotels. She will later step back to host guests such as King Willem‑Alexander, Queen Máxima and Princess Ariane, who will attend the Sweden match. Van Leeuwen said she will consider the World Cup successful if Dutch fans enjoy a strong Oranje experience at the tournament and at home. She discussed the One Love episode of the Gianni's Imperium podcast with international player Marten de Roon.