Why is Antwerp called 'The Great Old'?

'The Great Old' comes from the fact that Royal Antwerp is Belgium's oldest football club, holding matricule number 1. Founded in 1880, the club embodies the history of Belgian football and has witnessed the birth and evolution of the sport in the country.

How many championship titles has Antwerp won?

Antwerp has won four Belgian championships (1929, 1931, 1944, 1957) and ten Belgian Cups. After difficult decades, the club returned to glory by winning the championship in 2023, ending a 66-year wait.

What is Antwerp's recent renaissance?

After nearly facing bankruptcy, Antwerp was taken over in 2017 by Paul Gheysens. The club invested massively, won the Cup in 2020 and the championship in 2023, marking a spectacular return to the top of Belgian football through smart management and strategic recruitment.

Who are the legends of Royal Antwerp?

Raymond Braine (star of the 1930s), Jan Mulder, Enzo Scifo and more recently Radja Nainggolan have shone in the red and white colors. Braine remains the club's absolute icon, considered one of the greatest Belgian players of all time.

Does the Bosuilstadion have any special features?

The Bosuilstadion, with a capacity of 16,144, is one of Belgium's oldest stadiums still in use. Located in the Deurne district, it offers an authentic and warm atmosphere that creates a unique connection between the club and its passionate supporters.

What is Antwerp's historic rivalry?

The Antwerp Derby opposes Antwerp to Beerschot, an intense urban rivalry. Matches against Club Brugge and Anderlecht are also highly anticipated encounters that often decide championship positions.

Does Antwerp participate in European competitions?

Yes, since its renaissance, Antwerp regularly participates in the Europa League and Conference League. The club has achieved several European exploits in recent seasons, proving it can compete against major continental teams.

What are Royal Antwerp's colors?

Antwerp's colors are red and white. The home shirt traditionally features red with white details, symbolizing the club's historic identity and representing the pride of the city of Antwerp in Belgian and European football.

What is Antwerp's matricule number in Belgium?

Antwerp holds matricule number 1 of the Belgian football federation, confirming its status as the country's oldest club. This number is an immense source of pride for supporters and represents the club's pioneering role in Belgian football history.

How did Antwerp recover from its difficulties?

Thanks to investments from Paul Gheysens and rigorous management, Royal Antwerp went from near bankruptcy to the top of Belgian football in just a few years, winning the title in 2023 through a combination of smart recruitment, youth development and strong leadership.

Royal Antwerp

Royal Antwerp FC (ANT)

Overview

Welcome to the Royal Antwerp FC page, Belgium's oldest football club founded in 1880. The Great Old play at the Bosuilstadion and compete in the Jupiler Pro League. Follow all the latest news, results and standings of Antwerp in Belgian football.

Royal Antwerp FC holds a unique place in Belgian football history as the country's oldest club. With four championship titles and a rich tradition, Antwerp has experienced a spectacular renaissance in recent years. The club from Antwerp now rivals Belgium's biggest teams and participates in European competitions. Discover complete statistics, tactical analyses and transfer information.

FAQ

General Information

Founded: 1880

Stadium: Bosuilstadion

Official Website: www.royalantwerpfc.be