Talpa Files Complaint After Journalists Attacked Following Vitesse Ruling

arnhem, zaterdag, 9 augustus 2025.
Talpa has decided to file a complaint with the police following the attack on the ‘Heart of the Netherlands’ team on the Corn Market in Arnhem. The assault took place on Friday afternoon, shortly after Vitesse definitively lost its professional licence. Chief Editor Marc Veeningen confirmed that blows were exchanged and that a laptop was stolen. The Dutch Journalists’ Association (NVJ) condemns the actions and advocates for the safety of journalists.

Attack on the Corn Market

The attack on the ‘Heart of the Netherlands’ team occurred on the Corn Market in Arnhem, shortly after Vitesse definitively lost its professional licence. According to Talpa’s Chief Editor Marc Veeningen, the journalists were first attacked in the city centre, where blows were exchanged. Later, the journalists were also intimidated near their car, resulting in a laptop being stolen [1][2].

Police Response

The police in Gelderland confirmed that blows were exchanged and that journalists were attacked. However, no complaints have been received so far, and no arrests have been made. A police spokesperson stated that the situation quickly calmed down after it briefly became intense [2].

Condemnation by the NVJ

The Dutch Journalists’ Association (NVJ) strongly condemns the actions and advocates for the safety of journalists. An NVJ spokesperson emphasised that violence, threats, or mistreatment against journalists are never acceptable. “Stay away from journalists,” the NVJ stated [1].

Impact on the City

Following the altercation, many people fled the Corn Market, and football-friendly pubs closed as a precaution. Despite the initial tension, the city has now returned to calm [2].

Complaint by Talpa

Talpa is still considering which specific complaints to file, in addition to the attack on the team. Possible complaints include theft and threats. Chief Editor Marc Veeningen confirmed the complaint to the ANP [1][2].