About KRC Mechelen

KRC Mechelen (Koninklijke Racing Club Mechelen), commonly known as Racing Mechelen, is a historic Belgian football club based in Mechelen, founded in 1904. It is one of the traditional clubs of the city and holds matricule number 24, and it is also known for its long-standing rivalry with KV. Mechelen. The club plays its home matches at the Oscar Vankesbeeckstadion and is nicknamed “Den Racing.”

Historically, Racing Mechelen was one of the stronger Belgian sides in the first half of the 20th century. Its best league finish came in the 1951–52 season when it ended as runner-up in the Belgian First Division. The club also reached the Belgian Cup final in 1954 and had several strong top-tier campaigns in the interwar and post-war periods, often finishing in the upper part of the league table.

After its peak years, the club gradually declined and spent more time in lower divisions. From the 2010s onward, it dropped further down the Belgian football pyramid, even playing in provincial leagues for a period. Despite this decline, Racing Mechelen remains an important historic club in Belgium, especially known for its early contributions to top-flight football and its rivalry with KV Mechelen.