Excelsior Rotterdam, officially known as Stichting Betaald Voetbal Excelsior, is one of the most enduring and respected football clubs in the Netherlands. Founded in 1902, the F8BET club has spent more than a century representing the Kralingen district of Rotterdam with pride and determination. Known for their commitment to developing young talent, disciplined play, and loyal community support, Excelsior has become a beloved symbol of perseverance in Dutch football.
The Foundation of a Rotterdam Legacy
Excelsior was founded on July 23, 1902, by a group of passionate local football enthusiasts. What began as a small neighborhood club soon evolved into a vital part of Rotterdam’s sporting identity. While the city is home to football giants like Feyenoord and Sparta Rotterdam, Excelsior carved out its own place as the “people’s club” — modest in size but rich in heart and ambition.
The club’s home ground, Van Donge & De Roo Stadion (formerly Woudestein), has been Excelsior’s fortress since 1902. Though it holds just over 4,400 spectators, the stadium is known for its intimate and electrifying atmosphere. Fans are close to the action, creating a unique and passionate environment that gives Excelsior its famous home-field advantage.
Building a Reputation for Talent and Teamwork
Excelsior Rotterdam’s philosophy has always revolved around team spirit, youth development, and attacking football. The club has long been recognized for its strong partnership with Feyenoord, which began in the late 20th century. This collaboration allowed young Feyenoord talents to gain valuable experience at Excelsior before moving on to bigger stages.
Notable players such as Georginio Wijnaldum, Luuk de Jong, and Robin van Persie have passed through Excelsior’s ranks at some point in their development. The club’s commitment to nurturing young talent has earned it a reputation as one of the most effective stepping stones in Dutch football.
Climbing the Ranks: Promotions and Key Milestones
Throughout its long history, Excelsior has been a yo-yo club — regularly moving between the Eredivisie (Dutch top flight) and the Eerste Divisie (second division). Despite limited financial power compared to larger clubs, Excelsior has consistently defied the odds to earn promotions and secure impressive results against more established opponents.
Their first major promotion came in 1946, when Excelsior earned a place among the country’s top clubs. Over the decades, the team has enjoyed several memorable campaigns, particularly in the modern era.
One of the club’s most iconic moments occurred during the 2016–17 Eredivisie season, when Excelsior famously defeated Feyenoord 3–0 on the final day, delaying their city rival’s league title celebration. It was a stunning reminder that Excelsior may be smaller, but it commands respect in every fixture.
Total Goals and Scoring Heritage
Over the course of its history, Excelsior Rotterdam has scored more than 4,700 official goals across domestic and European competitions. This figure reflects decades of consistent participation in Dutch professional football and the club’s emphasis on creative, attacking play.
Some of the most prolific scorers in Excelsior’s history include Sjoerd den Daas, Pieter de Wolf, and Michel van der Laan, who each played key roles in the club’s most successful periods. In recent years, forwards like Reuven Niemeijer and Marouan Azarkan have carried on this proud tradition, contributing significantly to the club’s Eredivisie campaigns.
Awards and Achievements
While Excelsior may not have a trophy cabinet overflowing with silverware, their list of honors highlights a legacy of determination, growth, and success within their means:
- 3 Eerste Divisie (Second Division) Championships – 1973–74, 1978–79, 2005–06
- Several Promotions to Eredivisie – including in 2010, 2014, and 2021
- Strong Performances in KNVB Cup – reaching the quarter-finals multiple times
- Recognized Youth Development Program – among the top-rated academies in the Netherlands
These accomplishments underline Excelsior’s steady rise and consistent competitiveness over more than a century.
Community, Culture, and Identity
Excelsior is deeply embedded in the Kralingen community, representing not just football success but also social engagement and inclusivity. The club runs several community outreach programs promoting sports participation, education, and local development.
Fans of Excelsior take immense pride in their club’s authenticity — a team that thrives on passion rather than wealth. Every matchday at the Van Donge & De Roo Stadion feels like a family gathering, where generations of supporters celebrate the club’s enduring fighting spirit.
The Modern Era: Stability and Ambition
Today, Excelsior continues to compete in the Eredivisie, striving to maintain stability and solidify its place in the top division. Under smart management and a clear long-term vision, the club focuses on developing youth players, building financial sustainability, and staying true to its values of humility and perseverance.
With steady performances and disciplined play, Excelsior remains a respected competitor capable of surprising larger rivals. Their philosophy of blending homegrown talent with strategic signings ensures continued growth in Dutch football.
Final Thoughts
From its founding in 1902 to its modern Eredivisie campaigns, Excelsior Rotterdam FC embodies the very essence of Dutch football — skill, community, and unwavering belief. With over 4,700 total goals, a proud record of league titles and promotions, and a century of football heritage, Excelsior stands tall among the Netherlands’ most admired clubs.
