Dutch Eredivisie decalred null and void with no champion crowned

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The Dutch Eredivisie became the first major European football league to be terminated over coronavirus pandemic. The league has been called off effective immediately, meaning no winner will be crowned for the ongoing season.

The decision was made after the Dutch FA (KNVB) and the clubs held a video conference call where the parties came to an agreement regarding the winner and the promotion-relegation scenario.

There will be no winner crowned and similarly there would be no promotion to the top flight and relegation from the top flight to the second division as per the Dutch FA.  As a result of this, Ajax have been denied the title despite being on top of the table, only on goal difference to the second place AZ Alkmaar. A statement was released subsequently which read:

 “Unfortunately, with the cabinet’s most recent corona measures, it has become impossible to complete the 2019/2020 season of professional football competitions in time – it will be crystal clear to everyone involved, from supporters and players to directors and referees, that public health always comes first.

“The professional football board, after consulting clubs, players and coaches, and with the approval of the Supervisory Board, has decided to stop the 2019/20 competition and to allow the allocation of European club football seats based on the current league table.

“This is in accordance with UEFA guidelines. In relation to promotion and demotion, it has been decided not to promote and not to be demoted

Regarding the places for European competitions, the authorities have decided to put forward Ajax to go directly into the play-offs of the Champions League with AZ Alkmaar in the second qualifying round. Third-placed Feyenoord are touted to contest in the group stages of the Europa League while fourth and fifth-placed PSV and Willem II qualifying for the second qualifying round. The basis of selection of the clubs chosen for European competitions is subjected to a review by the UEFA authorities.

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