Ajax announced on Tuesday that they were suspending CEO and chairman Alex Kroes on suspicion of insider trading, adding to the challenges faced by the Dutch giants amid a tumultuous season. The club revealed that Kroes purchased over 17,000 Ajax shares a week before his intended appointment was officially announced on August 2, 2023.

In a statement, the club's Supervisory Board stated that they sought external legal advice, which indicated that Kroes likely engaged in insider trading, a criminal offense. The news came as a blow to the club's supporters' association, describing it as a "bombshell" exacerbating the woes already faced by the fans.

Kroes himself acknowledged that his actions were not wise, admitting that it was not the wisest decision. He clarified that his intention was to send a positive signal to instill confidence in the club. Despite expressing regret for the damage caused to the club, Kroes stated that he would not accept the decision.

These developments serve as another distraction for Ajax, who endured their worst-ever start to a Dutch top-flight season, briefly occupying the bottom of the Eredivisie table. The frustration among fans escalated to violence amidst the club's struggles.

Ajax, known for legendary figures like Johan Cruyff, Marco van Basten, and Dennis Bergkamp, have somewhat recovered since the dismal start but still find themselves in an unfamiliar fifth place in the Dutch top flight. With a significant gap of 28 points behind arch-rivals PSV Eindhoven, Ajax faces the challenge of qualifying for European football next season.

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