Jacques Vroegop’s Remarkable Sparta Story

Jacques Vroegop is a familiar face at Het Kasteel. Through Euro Rope, he has been a loyal sponsor of Sparta Rotterdam for many years. He has experienced both highs and lows in Spangen, but in 2025 he particularly enjoys seeing the stadium completely sold out for every home match. For the Rotterdam-based entrepreneur, hearing the Sparta Marsch is something truly magical.

We meet Jacques in his impressive, self-built man cave at Euro Rope in Vlaardingen. Anyone entering the space is immediately transported into another world. The enormous warehouse is filled with all kinds of remarkable objects, with something fascinating to see wherever you look. Among the arcade machines, Star Wars figures, dozens of pinball machines and, of course, maritime equipment stands an impressive bar several metres long.

It is Friday afternoon, the day after Sparta’s cup tie against FC Groningen, giving the Rotterdam football enthusiast plenty to reflect on. Using bottle caps from the beers that have just been opened, Jacques attempts to explain what went wrong during the first half, before going on to praise the thoroughly enjoyable second half.

Jacques is undoubtedly a true football enthusiast. Euro Rope has been involved with Sparta as a sponsor for more than fifteen years. “Sparta is simply a great club. It is accessible, welcoming and has a real family atmosphere. I once attended a Sparta match with a business associate and immediately decided to join the Business Club myself.”

These were not exactly Sparta’s glory years, but the disappointing results did not discourage Jacques. “The years in the Jupiler League were obviously not always enjoyable, but playing on Friday evenings always created a great atmosphere,” he recalls.

Sparta Flag

After Sparta’s difficult period, winning the championship ten years ago tasted even sweeter. The title-deciding match against Jong Ajax gave Jacques his most memorable Sparta story.

“That season was incredible. Throughout the entire campaign, the most passionate supporters waved two enormous flags. To me, those flags became the symbol of a fantastic season.”

During the championship celebrations, Jacques saw the flags being raised once again and decided that he wanted to become their owner. He bought them from the hardcore supporters on the spot and spent the rest of the evening walking around the pitch as happy as a child.

When the following season began without the flags, however, Jacques was not impressed. “It looked empty and the atmosphere felt dull. Through the club, I eventually got in touch with the supporters’ association and returned the flags.”

Euro Rope remains a regular presence at Het Kasteel. The company specialises in lifting and hoisting equipment, supplies, inspections and installations, including crane cables for the maritime, onshore and offshore wind sectors. In addition to Euro Rope, Jacques is also involved with Safe Lifting Europe, which specialises in the rental and certification of lifting and hoisting equipment.

Even after fifteen years, Sparta’s magic has not faded for Jacques. “This club remains unique. I think it is fantastic to see how much the club means to people and that the stadium sells out every single time. The iconic Sparta Marsch will always be something special to me. And with that in mind: for many years to come… SP-AR-TA!”