Rioters caused severe disturbances and traffic gridlock across multiple neighborhoods in Utrecht and Amersfoort on Saturday evening, July 4, 2026.
The unrest followed Morocco's World Cup victory over Canada.
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According to local police reports, celebrations quickly deteriorated into unrest. Individuals set fires, caused massive traffic disruptions, and threw heavy fireworks at law enforcement officers.
In the Kanaleneiland neighborhood, multiple vehicles were destroyed by fire. The Mobile Unit (ME) was deployed to restore public order, as reported by RTV Utrecht.
Public transit faced severe disruptions in Overvecht.
Police ordered a temporary halt to all bus services after rioters vandalized a shared car and smashed bus shelter windows using a car hammer.
The Mobile Unit cleared Kanaalstraat in the Lombok neighborhood at approximately 11:00 p. m.
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Crowds were ordered to return home after hundreds of fans filled the streets.
Honking cars and scooters caused severe traffic blockages on major thoroughfares including Vleutenseweg and Amsterdamsestraatweg. Some residents were unable to reach their homes.
Meanwhile, celebrations at the Van Randwijcklaan and "De Stier" roundabout in Amersfoort drew hundreds of fans but remained peaceful.
Crowds dispersed at 10:00 p. m.
upon police requests.
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The unrest followed Morocco's 3-0 victory against Canada in Houston. The win secured their spot in the quarterfinals after previously eliminating the Netherlands earlier in the week.
