JPL
Steve Van den Kerkhof Resigns from Antwerp Board Amid Supporter Attacks
Steve Van den Kerkhof, former Plopsaland CEO, announced on Tuesday that he will step down from the Royal Antwerp FC board after a series of personal attacks by supporters following the club’s poor season. The board said the incidents have affected club operations and that Van den Kerkhof will continue to assist remotely on ongoing projects.
Steve Van den Kerkhof had been the target of supporter attacks in recent weeks after a very poor season and a continuous decline since the double‑winning campaign. The criticism was directed primarily at him as a board member.
Royal Antwerp FC issued an official statement on Tuesday saying the incidents have impacted the club’s functioning. "Le RAFC déplore les attaques personnelles et irrespectueuses de ces dernières semaines, principalement dirigées à l’égard d’une seule personne," the club said.
The club stressed that the attacks stem from a limited group and do not contribute to the proper development of Matricule 1. "Elles mettent l’accent sur des personnes afin de semer la discorde au sein du club," it added.
Antwerp added that a discreet, long‑term structural policy has been prepared to bring the club back to the top. "Depuis un certain temps, et de manière discrète, un travail est réalisé en vue d’une politique structurelle et durable pour ramener le club au sommet," the statement explained.
To avoid further tension, Steve Van den Kerkhof decided to renounce his mandate, acting in what he described as the club’s interest. "Afin de préserver le calme et de placer l’intérêt du club au premier plan, Steve Van den Kerkhof a informé le conseil d’administration qu’il déposait son mandat," the club noted.
The board expressed regret at his departure but respected his choice. Van den Kerkhof will continue to assist remotely on pending dossiers to ensure daily operations and prevent important projects from being halted.
Antwerp hopes the resignation will calm the situation and allow focus on the ongoing structural plan. The club aims to guarantee continuity of daily functioning while pursuing its long‑term vision.