Netherlands football launches anti‑hate campaign and announces lineup for 2026 World Cup preparations

The Dutch football platform VoetbalPrimeur, in partnership with ING, has begun a campaign aimed at curbing online hate directed at the national team during the 2026 World Cup. The initiative encourages fans to support the Oranje positively, using the slogan that sharp criticism is acceptable but personal attacks are not. Former internationals such as Ruud Gullit and Ronald de Boer will appear in a new interview series, and the platform will highlight constructive fan comments with prizes and a dedicated hashtag.

Ahead of the tournament, Dutch coach Ronald Koeman confirmed that midfielder Mats Wieffer will start in the upcoming friendly against Algeria, benefiting from the suspension of right‑back Denzel Dumfries. Koeman also named Bart Verbruggen as the first-choice goalkeeper. Squad numbers for the World Cup were released, with Wout Weghorst wearing No 9 and Wieffer assigned No 12. Meanwhile, PEC Zwolle reported that it has sold all season tickets for the next campaign, filling its 14,000‑seat stadium.

Both the anti‑hate drive and the squad announcements are part of broader efforts to rally Dutch support and ensure a positive atmosphere as the team prepares for the 2026 tournament.