It has been good… it has been absolutely brilliant. From our desperate years of fainting succes, we’ve once more risen to claim our place as a top-flight football club: Three cup finals in five years – triumphing in two – winning a league title, achieving the treble… and beating Barcelona in the Champions League along the way.
While another trophy eluded us this time, the journey has been nothing short of exhilarating. As proud supporters of our legendary club – the Great Old – we stand unwavering: We shall not be moved! 💪🇵🇪
We are proud to introducing our latest garment design, honouring the 2024 cup final: vibrant Antwerp red t-shirts, and pristine classy white hoodies! With their sleek design and premium quality they offer a stylish display to supporting our lads! 🇵🇪 🙌
All great stories come to an end. In this case it’s a story that started in 2006 when Antwerp essence, Ritchie de Laet started his professional football career at Royal Antwerp.
Today, Ritchie and the Club have made an announcement marking the end of an era: Our esteemed legend will retire from playing for Antwerp after this season.
It’s a story deeply rooted in the red and white colours of Antwerp, beginning in the youth ranks. Ritchie’s talent was recognised early on by English Stoke City, leading to a swift Manchester United transfer. His journey then took him through various Premier League Clubs, including Leicester City and Arsenal.
Since 2019, Ritchie has been a pillar of strength for a revitalised Royal Antwerp. Under his influence, the club has re-risen to prominence in Belgium, securing two cup victories, a national title, a super cup, and participating in the prestigious Champions League. By the end of this season, Ritchie, a devoted Antwerp supporter – and now also true legend – will have accumulated over 200 appearances for his beloved club.
Ritchie, we extend our heartfelt congratulations and gratitude for the countless memorable moments you’ve provided – us red & white supporters – with your unwavering fighting spirit. Thank you, and good luck! 🇵🇪💪
The official video – in Dutch
Translated transcript “We Are as One | Farewell Ritchie De Laet”
In the passage of half a lifetime, I’ve journeyed far.
November 18, 2006: Anxious strides upon Sacred Ground.
Swiftly embraced by the Bosuil’s tender wings. A haven.
Across the Channel’s expanse, every route feels like home.
East, West, South, Deurne-Noord. Guided by destiny’s hand.
Returning with my worldly possessions in tow.
We are as one. Red and white. Antwerp Lads {Sinjoren} United.
Memories shared, joyful and sorrowful.
My kit soaked with sweat over 200 times. A badge of honour in your service.
I’ve witnessed the resurgence of Number-1, vying for true glory.
Two cups, a Supercup, and that exhilarating championship.
Antwerp’s name emblazoned on Europe’s footballing stage.
From Tottenham to Barcelona, every step worth the journey.
Yet time’s inexorable march brings us to the brink of parting.
Once more, I’ll pour heart and soul. For you, beside you.
Royal Antwerp FC has secured their sixth consecutive spot in the Belgian top league Champions’ Play-Offs by finishing third in the regular season. Starting from March 30th, six teams, including Antwerp, Union, Anderlecht, Club Brugge, Cercle Brugge, and Genk, will compete for the League Champion’s title 2023-2024 🏆
Having overcome courageous Ostend, The Great Old heads again to the King Baudouin Stadium with the chance to claim the cup for the third time in just five years! Securing the cup consecutively would mark a unique Belgian achievement this century.
Everyone is urged – once more! – to converge on Brussels. The date is set for May 9th – or possibly May 20th, contingent upon Union’s performance in the Conference League semi-finals. Stay tuned for updates here, as we endeavour to ensure another vibrant celebration in Brussels, also with the Antwerp Supporters Club UK!
Close to a 3rd final since 2020! We stand on the brink. Three weeks ago, a less-than-convincing first leg against KV Oostende tested our mettle with a 1-1 draw. Now, it’s our moment to solidify a place in the final, at the Bosuilstadion, another chapter in our storied history: Come On You Reds 💪🇵🇪
Our Reds are facing the unforeseen team from KV Oostende in this first semi-final of the Croky Cup. While RAFC currently hold the 4th position in the Belgian Pro League, KV Oostende finds itself in the 14th spot in the Challenger Pro League. Despite their current standing, the traditional coastal team’s progression to the semi-finals is not without merit, driven by their goal to overcome financial and administrative challenges through positive sporting results.
Looking ahead to the return match at the Bosuil in two weeks, it’s most important for the Great Old to bring a favourable score back to Antwerp. The Final Awaits – Come On You Reds!
The last surviving member of the iconic team from the 1950s, and the only remaining player who played a crucial role alongside ‘Mister Antwerp’ Vic Mees in capturing Antwerp’s national league title in 1957, an achievement that stood as the pinnacle until the championship was reclaimed last year.
Louis marked his debut in the first team in 1951, proudly donning the Red & White colours for 11 seasons, participating in a total of 144 official matches. In the 1956-’57 season, he featured in every competition match, and the subsequent season saw the pinnacle with the historic double clash against Real Madrid in the European Champions Cup. Subsequently, Louis devoted himself to coaching youth, providing assistance to young players in honing their football skills.
