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A referee who gave four red cards to a Dutch team and then celebrated their title win has been banned for life.
A strange ending occurred during a match between SV De Valken and St. George, which was officiated by Jan Smit.
Three De Valken players and a member of their coaching staff were sent off by Smit, who also extended the game's duration by fifteen minutes.
The referee was later seen with the team celebrating their title-winning season in a video shared on social media.
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Referee banned for life
During the game, as stoppage time approached, St George were a goal down before goalkeeper Dave Laan pulled one back for the team vying for the title.
This was sufficient to ensure the title, and Smit was later spotted having fun with the St. George players.
According to reports from the Sun, a video which has emerged on X showed Smit getting on the podium and lifting the trophy.
The affected team, De Valken, complained about the referee’s officiating after the controversial incident.
Smit has been in controversial situations years back and was previously suspended in 2021 for "improper behaviour".
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Now, the Dutch Football Association and KNVB, have banned the referee for life, keeping him away from the football field.
Smit reacts to ban
KNVB spokesperson Daan Schippers released the following statement saying, "We have received several complaints after Sunday's match.
"This morning we called Mr Smit and told him that he is no longer allowed to referee matches.
"We expect a neutral attitude from a referee and that both teams are treated with respect. That is of course where this attitude belongs."
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Smit, however, has responded against the ruling by stating he doesn't believe he was at fault for his actions.
Speaking to NH Nieuws, he said, "I wasn't partying with the players at all. I just sang a song and held up the bowl once. That's the only thing.
"I find it too sad for words that the KNVB is removing me for that reason. It's laughable. KNVB has not done any research and only watched one video. I assume that the whistling is now over, but I will no longer get on my knees like I did two years ago."
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