First Eredivisie Relegation Confirmed: Heracles Almelo Bids Farewell After Three Seasons

Prior to the match, Excelsior secured a 5-0 victory over FC Utrecht, meaning that Heracles needed a win against FC Volendam to maintain their hopes of survival. Alas, the hosts fell short, and the 2-0 loss not only sealed their fate but also allowed FC Volendam to escape the relegation zone.

The defeat was met with frustration from the home crowd, who interrupted the game by launching fireworks onto the pitch in the closing moments.

Heracles Almelo’s season started poorly, with the team losing nine of their first ten Eredivisie matches— a dismal run that cost manager Bas Sibum his position in October. An interim caretaker, Hendrie Krüzen, briefly lifted spirits with an incredible 8-2 victory against PEC Zwolle among other wins in his four games, marking a brief high point in a generally bleak season.

Ernest Faber was appointed in December but managed to win only one of his 16 league matches between rounds 15 and 31. The club’s situation deteriorated further when top scorer Jizz Hornkamp departed for AZ during the winter transfer window.

Throughout the season, Heracles struggled in the relegation zone, finishing in either 16th, 17th, or 18th place in all 31 rounds.

The Almelo side had previously secured their Eredivisie place after a commanding campaign in the Keuken Kampioen Divisie, finishing the 2022-23 season with an impressive 85 points from 38 matches. After finishing 14th in the past two seasons, they now prepare for a return to the Keuken Kampioen Divisie.

‘Stronger. Together.’

“Relegation is now a reality, and it cuts deep. It’s like a dagger to the heart. For all of us,” the club expressed in a statement on Sunday evening.

“For our supporters and sponsors, for all staff and volunteers, and for the entire community. An overwhelming silence fell over us after the final whistle against FC Volendam. It was a silence filled with disappointment, sadness, and disbelief.

“But it was also a silence brimming with resolve. Heracles Almelo represents more than just one season. We are bigger than a run of disappointing results. Our strength lies in our unity: the passion for our black and white colours, the pride of Almelo and the surrounding area, and the vibrant atmosphere of the Asito Stadium. It is during difficult times that we truly show who we are. Now is our time to demonstrate that resilience. We won’t back down. We will stand firm. And we will return. Stronger. Together.”