Molenbeek appeal falls on deaf ears
Friday, August 23, 2002
Article summary
RWD Molenbeek were unsuccessful in their appeal against expulsion from the Juliper League.
Article body
The Belgian Football Association (KBVB) have rejected an appeal from RWD Molenbeek against being thrown out of the Jupiler League.
License revoked
The KBVB revoked former Belgian champions Molenbeek's first-division licence at the end of last season because of the club's insurmountable debts and have unequivocally refused to renew it.
'Decision taken'
"The decision has already been taken," a KBVB spokseman said. "The club no longer exists. They did not pay their players for the last four months of the season and their debts include one of about €70,000 to the [Belgian] Football Association."
Hopes dashed
Molenbeek, who finished tenth in the 18-team league last season, hoped to continue to play in the third division and have accused the Belgian FA of acting without the consent of their executive committee.
€4m liabilities
Molenbeek, formed in 1973 following the merger of Racing White and Daring Molenbeek, are understood to be liable for aroud €4m in debts to players, coaches and agents.
Third rejection
It is the third time the club have failed to have the decision overturned on appeal. Yet to secure financial backing to clear their liabilities, all players have been declared free agents.
