Zulte Waregem: A History of Ups and Downs

Zulte Waregem, often called Essevee, is a Belgian professional football club based in Waregem, West Flanders. While not one of the traditional powerhouses of Belgian football, they’ve carved out a unique and compelling history, marked by periods of surprising success interspersed with challenging spells. The club’s origins trace back to the merger of two local clubs, Zultse VV and SV Waregem, in 2001. SV Waregem, the older of the two, boasted a richer history, including a Belgian Cup win in 1974 and several seasons in the top flight. The merger aimed to create a stronger, more competitive entity capable of representing the region effectively. Initially, Zulte Waregem found themselves in the second division. Their ascent was rapid, however, and by 2005, they had secured promotion to the Belgian Pro League. This marked the beginning of a golden era for the club. The 2005-2006 season proved to be a watershed moment. Under the guidance of coach Francky Dury, Zulte Waregem defied expectations and captured the Belgian Cup, defeating Excelsior Mouscron in the final. This triumph not only secured their first major trophy as a merged entity but also earned them a place in the UEFA Cup. Their European adventure saw them advance to the group stage, a significant achievement for a club of their stature. The following years saw Zulte Waregem consolidate their position in the Pro League, consistently finishing in the top half of the table. They became known for their attacking style of play and their ability to develop talented young players. Francky Dury, a managerial mainstay, became synonymous with the club’s success, building a strong team spirit and tactical awareness. The 2012-2013 season was arguably the pinnacle of Zulte Waregem’s history. They came agonizingly close to winning the Belgian Pro League title, finishing just two points behind Anderlecht. Their thrilling title challenge captured the imagination of fans and solidified their reputation as a force to be reckoned with. They even qualified for the Champions League playoffs, although they ultimately missed out on group stage qualification. In 2017, Zulte Waregem won their second Belgian Cup, defeating Oostende in a penalty shootout. This victory provided another memorable moment for the club and their loyal supporters. It also qualified them for the Europa League. However, the years following the second cup win have been less successful. The club has struggled to maintain its consistency and has faced financial challenges. Francky Dury departed in 2021, ending a long and fruitful association with the club. Since then, Zulte Waregem has gone through several managerial changes, seeking to rediscover its winning formula. In 2023, after many years in the top flight, Zulte Waregem were relegated back to the Challenger Pro League, marking a difficult period for the club and its fans. The challenge now is to rebuild and return to the top division, reclaiming their place in Belgian football’s elite. Despite the recent setbacks, Zulte Waregem’s history is filled with moments of glory and unexpected success, providing hope for a brighter future. The club’s loyal fanbase remains a strong foundation as they navigate this new chapter.