In 1988 Racing Mechelen returned to the Belgian First Division, after a 12-year absence, and managed to maintain their top-flight status the following season. Racing saved itself on the final matchday with a 2-3 away win in Lokeren.

The 1989 - 90 season proved much tougher though and returning former coach Raoul Peeters could not escape relegation at the end of the campaign. But the love for some cult heroes and the iconic ASLK-shirt prevailed.