John Textor (foto: Getty Images)
RWDM's rebranding to Daring Brussels has outraged Molenbeek, with city officials threatening stadium eviction over what they call a breach of identity and contractual obligations.
RWDM will adopt a new name, Daring Brussels, from the start of the 2025/26 season, reviving one of its historic identities in a bid to modernize and reflect the club’s 130-year legacy.
The club insists the change is part of an ambitious long-term strategy to strengthen ties with the European capital while retaining its red and black colours, along with new gold accents in homage to its original coat of arms.
But the decision has caused significant backlash among fans and local residents in Molenbeek, who were not consulted. Many view it as an erasure of the club’s deep-rooted community identity.
The controversy intensified after municipal authorities in Molenbeek declared their official opposition. According to HLN, city officials accuse the club of breaching its contract, which mandates the promotion of the Molenbeek name.
Authorities are now considering drastic measures, including evicting the club from the Edmond Machtens stadium, a move that could leave Daring Brussels without a home ground heading into the new season.
In an official statement, Molenbeek leaders said: "If this plan is implemented, it will represent an unacceptable break with the symbolic and emotional bond that connects this club to our community. It is also a direct attack on the honor and reputation of Molenbeek, which the club is contractually obliged to promote."
This deepening conflict between the club’s American owner John Textor and local authorities threatens to derail RWDM’s future plans, as tensions grow over identity, loyalty, and contractual obligations.