Netherlands secures Fair Play award despite early World Cup exit

Amid the bright lights of the stadiums across the United States, the Dutch national side lifted a trophy that no one expected after a single knockout match at the World Cup. The Fair Play award, presented by FIFA, now adorns the Oranje’s travel case.

The Netherlands national team was eliminated after just one knockout‑stage game, ending their World Cup campaign earlier than most rivals. Their early exit meant the Dutch squad returned home without a place in the knockout bracket.

Nevertheless, the Dutch delegation did not leave the United States empty‑handed. FIFA announced that the Netherlands would receive the tournament’s Fair Play prize following the final.

The announcement came after the World Cup final, which Spain won, confirming the award’s timing. FIFA’s decision highlighted the Dutch team’s conduct throughout the competition.

Since its inception in 1970, the Fair Play award has been given to the nation judged most sporting over the course of the tournament. The criteria focus on discipline, respect and overall behaviour on and off the pitch.

The Netherlands accumulated three yellow cards during the event, two more than the Czech Republic and Tunisia, each of which received only one. Despite the higher card count, the Dutch side still topped the Fair Play ranking.

England claimed the same honour in 2022, and the Netherlands had never won it before this edition. The 2024 award therefore marks a first for the Dutch football federation.

Along with a diploma, the prize includes a financial contribution of up to 50,000 US dollars earmarked for a football‑related social project chosen by the Dutch federation.

FIFA also handed out individual accolades: Spain’s Rodri was named player of the tournament, Unai Simón received the goalkeeper award, and Pau Cubarsí was recognised as the tournament’s best talent.