haarlemsdagbladJun 9, 2026, 17:00

Does World Cup referee Danny Makkelie inspire youth to pick up the whistle? ‘You’re not a wimp, but the boss on the field’

Author Arjan van den Haak has released two youth novels intended to inspire young football fans to pursue careers as referees, modeled after Dutch World Cup official Danny Makkelie. The stories aim to portray referees as authoritative figures on the field and encourage youths to handle the pressure and criticism associated with the role.

Culture Lifestyle Netherlands

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Based on reporting by haarlemsdagblad. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

NS to increase train services during ADE weekend, metros to run an hour later

The NS and GVB are expanding public transport services in Amsterdam for the Amsterdam Dance Event, offering increased train, metro, and ferry frequencies. The adjustments include extra stops at Bijlmer Arena and extended operating hours to accommodate festival visitors throughout the weekend.

Doutzen Kroes misses familiar faces at Victoria's Secret Fashion Show

Doutzen Kroes discussed the changing lineup of the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show, noting she misses former colleagues while appreciating the event's enduring glamour. Her fellow Dutch model Romee Strijd announced she will no longer pursue Victoria's Secret castings after experiencing poor communication and rejection.

Deputy Prime Minister Rob Jetten and partner Nicolás Keenan expecting child via surrogate in 2027

Dutch politician Rob Jetten and his partner, Nicolás Keenan, have announced that they are expecting a child via a surrogate in 2027. The couple previously made headlines when their relationship was first publicly confirmed in 2026.

Rob Jetten and Nico Keenan are expecting a baby: ‘We are eternally grateful to our egg donor and surrogate’

Dutch politician Rob Jetten and his partner Nico Keenan are expecting a baby in the spring of 2027 through a non-commercial surrogacy arrangement. The couple expressed their deep gratitude to the egg donor and surrogate, while asking for privacy for everyone involved.

Review: The eighth season of Gooische Vrouwen is bold, cheesy, dramatic, and occasionally touching again

The eighth season of the hit series Gooische Vrouwen returns with its signature blend of drama, comedy, and extravagant characters set in the affluent Gooi region. The new episodes explore mature themes such as marriage, independence, and social class while reuniting the core group of female friends.