Top athletes in revolt: Cutbacks threaten future of sports

In an open letter, 67 Olympic champions, (former) top athletes and coaches express their dissatisfaction with the proposed cuts in sports by the Schoof cabinet. They fear that the cuts, which amount to 45 million euros per year, will mean a devastation for Dutch sport.

Financial loss for the sector

The cuts are the result of an increase in the gambling tax and an increased VAT rate for, among other things, gyms. The Dutch Lottery, the main sponsor of the sport, will therefore pay less, leading to a deficit of 12.5 million euros per year.

Lack of understanding about cuts

The 67 signatories of the open letter, including Ellen van Langen, Ireen Wüst, Anky van Grunsven, Guus Hiddink, Tom Dumoulin and Epke Zonderland, find it incomprehensible that the value of sport is not recognized. Former skater Erben Wennemars is “really angry” about the plans: “The values ​​you learn in sport form the basis of our society.”

Sports connects 

Former Olympic champion Kim Lammers emphasizes the unifying factor of sport: “Look at the impact of the European Football Championship. The Netherlands is currently divided, but during such an event you see one big Orange March. Sport connects.” Lammers adds that sport also makes an important contribution to the health of the population: “Every euro invested in sport delivers 2.70 euros in value to society.”

Future of Dutch top sport in anger

According to the letter writers, the cuts also threaten the future of Dutch top sport. NOC*NSF previously warned that the ambition to be among the best ten top sports countries in the world is coming under pressure. Former skater Erben Wennemars advocates a different focus: “Winning medals is a means, an inspiration for recreational sports. Winning only becomes more powerful and valuable if we can incorporate social relevance.”

Call for investment in sports

The 67 signatories of the open letter call on the Schoof cabinet to reverse the cuts to sports. They argue for investments instead of cuts: “Especially in our divided country, sport is a connector. Investing in sport is investing in a healthier and more connected society.”