KNVB appoints referee Björn Kuipers as federal knight: ‘Example of many’ | Football

sport">The linesmen Sander van Roekel and Erwin Zeinstra are now also federal knights. The final ended in 1-1, Italy won the European Championship on penalties.

sport">„The team of Björn Kuipers is a great ambassador of the KNVB and of the Dutch arbitration. Kuipers, Van Roekel and Zeinstra are an example for their fellow (assistant) referees due to their positive attitude and behaviour, dedication and commitment,” the KNVB said in a statement. “They show time and again that their success is the result of hard work, a lot of training and a willingness to constantly improve. Their success is a source of inspiration for boys and girls to start whistling as well. Many of them see Kuipers as their great example.”

sport">Kuipers was a candidate to whistle the final at the 2014 World Cup, but then had to go home because the Dutch national team reached the semi-finals in Brazil. The seasoned referee, who was active at two World Cups and three European Championships, also whistled the final of the Champions League in 2014 and the finals of the Europa League twice (2013 and 2018). Kuipers has been a professional football referee since 2004.

Various awards

sport">The KNVB awards awards in recognition of the efforts of association volunteers or KNVB officials with a long track record. Depending on the length of the ‘service period’ and the weight of the position, there are various distinctions.

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