Vitesse Arnhem Relegated Following 18-Point Deduction Amid Financial Irregularities

The Dutch football club faces relegation to the second division after a severe penalty linked to financial mismanagement and ties to Russian oligarch Roman Abramovich.

• Vitesse Arnhem received an 18-point deduction from the Dutch football association, KNVB, leading to its relegation from the Eredivisie for the first time in 35 years.
• The penalty, the largest in Dutch football history, was imposed due to significant violations of licensing regulations and financial irregularities.
• Investigations revealed undisclosed financial ties between Vitesse and former Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich, raising concerns about potential sanctions violations.
• Despite the opportunity to appeal, Vitesse has chosen not to contest the decision and will focus on retaining its football license.
• Further investigations and potential additional sanctions are pending as authorities and the KNVB continue to scrutinize the club's financial operations.

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