KNVB

The KNVB, short for Koninklijke Nederlandse Voetbalbond, is the governing body of football in the Netherlands. Founded in 1889, it oversees national teams, organizes domestic competitions such as the KNVB Cup, and regulates both amateur and youth football across the country. The federation is headquartered in Zeist, near Utrecht, and operates under a governance structure that includes a general assembly, a board, and various commissions.

As a member of FIFA since 1904 and UEFA since 1954, the KNVB represents Dutch football in international affairs. It supervises the national teams, including the Netherlands men’s national football team (often referred to as Oranje) and the women’s national team (Oranje Leeuwinnen, commonly translated as Orange Lionesses), as well as youth and development programs. The organization also licenses coaches and referees and sets standards for competition, discipline, infrastructure, and safety.

In domestic football, the KNVB is responsible for organizing the national cup competition and for the broader development of professional and amateur football in the Netherlands. It collaborates with clubs, leagues, and regional associations to promote participation, coaching education, and youth development, while addressing governance, integrity, and anti-discrimination measures in the sport.

The KNVB’s activities aim to maintain competitive national teams, support football at every level, and ensure compliance with international rules and standards, while contributing to the reputation of Dutch football on the world stage.