Sporting Hasselt has pulled off a transfer surprise on deadline day by securing the permanent signing of experienced midfielder Geoffry Hairemans from Royal Antwerp FC, according to club announcements and regional sports reporting. The 34-year-old playmaker leaves the Bosuil stadium to embark on a new chapter in the Challenger Pro League, bringing a wealth of top-flight experience to the Limburg club.
Geoffry Hairemans Departs Antwerp in Permanent Deal
Geoffry Hairemans has officially ended his third stint with Royal Antwerp FC to join Sporting Hasselt on a permanent transfer. The 34-year-old midfielder was still under contract with the Great Old until June 2027, but limited playing time in Deurne-Noord prompted the move. According to club records and match reports, Hairemans featured primarily as a substitute in the Jupiler Pro League this season, making two appearances off the bench.
“Afscheid nemen bij Antwerp was moeilijk,” Hairemans acknowledged in emotional farewell remarks reported by regional media, adding that he feels ready for his next challenge with the Spor. Antwerp confirmed the departure, honoring the veteran midfielder who played a pivotal role in the club’s promotion back to the top flight in 2017.
Geoffry Hairemans (34) zegt de Bosuil vaarwel en kiest ervoor om zijn carrière voort te zetten bij Sporting Hasselt. Het gaat om een definitieve transfer. Hairemans zet zo een punt achter zijn derde passage bij RAFC. Alles samen speelde Geoffke Deurne-Noord 146 wedstrijden in…
— Royal Antwerp FC (@official_rafc) September 3, 2026
A Rich History in Belgian Football
Over his three distinct periods with Royal Antwerp FC, Hairemans accumulated 146 total appearances, scoring 33 goals and providing 30 assists, earning recognition from the club as a true icon. His career also features a significant spell with KV Mechelen, whom he joined in 2019 before returning to Antwerp in the summer of 2025. During his time at Malinwa, Hairemans appeared in 203 matches, matching his personal tally of 33 goals and 30 assists.
Sporting Hasselt adds a seasoned competitor to its squad as the club campaigns in the Challenger Pro League. Hasselt opened the current campaign with six points from its first three league fixtures.
Challenger Pro League Context and Squad Impact
While Antwerp bids farewell to a beloved figure who helped shape its modern resurgence, Hasselt secures a creative midfielder capable of dictating tempo in the middle of the pitch.
What Comes Next
Fans seeking updates can follow official club channels and the Challenger Pro League schedule for kickoff times and team sheets.
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