Police Issue Warning to Football Fans Ahead of Euro 2024 Play-Off Final
Football fans attending the Euro 2024 play-off final between Wales and Poland in Cardiff tonight have been issued a fresh warning by the police regarding the dangers of flares. This comes after seven Polish supporters were arrested during a fiery Nations League clash at the Cardiff City Stadium in September 2022, four of whom were found to be in possession of pyrotechnic devices.
During the previous clash between Wales and Poland, flares were lit by the Polish fans during the national anthems and throughout the match. In addition, a firework was set off from the away section after Karol Swiderski’s winning goal in the 57th minute. These incidents have prompted the Football Association of Wales (FAW) and South Wales Police to collaborate in an effort to curb crowd trouble in tonight’s sell-out Euro tie, where a spot at the finals in Germany this summer is at stake.
The FAW has emphasized that there is no safe use of pyrotechnics in spectator areas at football events due to the health risks and dangers they pose. These risks include the potential for loss of sight, limb, or digit removal due to their explosive power. Any person found to be using pyrotechnics faces an FA Wales ban, probable arrest, and a minimum three-year Football Banning Order. Furthermore, individuals identified using pyrotechnics away from the stadium can be issued with section 34 notices and instructed to leave the area, with their details passed on to the FAW, Cardiff City Stadium, and the authorities, potentially resulting in denial of entry into the stadium.
South Wales Police have also added their voice to the issue, repeatedly warning supporters that the use of pyrotechnics in stadiums is banned and will result in sanctions. Superintendent Steve Rees has emphasized that being in possession of a pyrotechnic device at a football match or attempting to bring one into a stadium is a criminal offense, punishable by arrest and a Football Banning Order. He further highlighted the close collaboration between the police and Cardiff City Stadium staff in ensuring that supporters abide by stadium regulations. Supporters attending the match are encouraged to follow the supporter advice published by the FAW.
The importance of addressing crowd trouble in football matches has been underscored by previous incidents. In November, Aston Villa’s Europa Conference League match against Legia Warsaw was marred by crowd trouble, leading to 46 Polish fans being charged after violent clashes with the police. Additionally, the FAW was fined over £14,500 by FIFA after home fans let off flares during 2022 World Cup play-off victories over Austria and Ukraine in Cardiff.
These warnings serve as a reminder of the dangers associated with pyrotechnics in stadiums and the need to ensure the safety and security of all attendees. The tragic incident in 1993, where John Hill lost his life after being hit by a flare during Wales’ World Cup qualifier against Romania, further highlights the potential consequences of such actions.
Tonight’s play-off final is not only a crucial match for both Wales and Poland but also an opportunity for football fans to come together and enjoy the sport. Let us hope that all attendees will prioritize safety and respect for the game, ensuring a memorable and incident-free evening of football.