Ike Simoncini, 59, described having spent more than 30 years among the hard-core supporters of FC Den Haag, formerly ADO. He said he had fought, drank and used drugs, and had thrown stones at riot police during his time as a hooligan.

Simoncini said he had grown up in a wealthy family but had preferred to settle matters with his fists. He linked his past behaviour to personal wounds and said he had been completely derailed.