The Legendary Oranjebus: A Tale of Dutch Soccer Fandom

It all began with an old double-decker bus that sparked an extraordinary journey. Approximately two decades ago, a group of friends, brought together by their shared passion for Dutch soccer, hatched a vibrant idea during a casual beer-fueled conversation. Their plan? To purchase an antiquated bus and transform it into a mobile tribute to their national team by painting it in the iconic Dutch color, orange. With a makeshift bar and robust sound system installed, the bus was destined to accompany them on their soccer adventures.

Yet, as time passed, this humble bus transcended its original purpose. Evolving into a symbol of camaraderie and exuberance, it now leads a jubilant procession of tens of thousands of Dutch supporters clad in orange. These fans harmonize in song, chant with fervor, and skip in unison as they make their way to stadiums worldwide, fervently cheering on their beloved national team.

During the recent European Championship held in Germany, the bus embarked on a spirited journey, spreading contagious joy and unwavering optimism. This infectious enthusiasm, at odds with the Dutch adage advocating for modesty, has captivated audiences and garnered widespread attention, resonating with fans globally.

Henk van Beek, the bus’s designated D.J. and leader of the original group, reflects on their unforeseen transformation, stating, “We never envisioned this outcome. We are simply die-hard fans, and that’s the beauty of it all.”

As their initiative gained momentum, the once informal gatherings evolved into meticulously organized events. Collaborating with local authorities and the Dutch soccer federation, Mr. van Beek and his companions now coordinate elaborate match-day processions, necessitating security measures and official approval from law enforcement due to the massive turnout.