The Creation of a New Criminal Offence in Football Matches Recommended by MPs

In a recent development, the Culture, Media and Sport Committee has recommended the introduction of an innovative criminal offence related to unauthorised entry into football matches. This proposal emerged following an extensive inquiry conducted to address issues concerning spectator safety.

This measure comes as a response to the disorder witnessed during the Euro 2020 final at Wembley Stadium. The incident involved individuals without tickets attempting to gain access to witness England’s unfortunate defeat against Italy.

If implemented, this distinct criminal offence pertaining to unauthorised entry would empower authorities with the ability to impose football banning orders on offenders. Such measures are essential for maintaining public safety and preventing overcrowding inside stadiums.

Dame Caroline Dinenage, Chair of the committee, expressed her concerns: “Tailgating and other forms of unauthorised entry into grounds have become increasingly problematic during high-profile matches, posing risks due to overcrowding. Those engaged in such activities must comprehend that they will face consequences, and it is imperative for the government to support legislation enabling their banning.”

A review examining the events surrounding the Euro 2020 final highlighted how “ticketless, drunken and drugged-up thugs” could potentially have caused fatalities if left unchecked.

Moreover, this inquiry delved into incidents occurring during the 2022 Champions League final when Liverpool supporters were trapped and subjected to tear gas outside Paris’s Stade de France. An independent report subsequently attributed primary responsibility for these chaotic scenes towards Uefa.

The Culture, Media and Sport Committee condemned Liverpool fans’ treatment as utterly “disgraceful”. In light of these events, the committee recommended that the government work towards fostering improved relationships with foreign governments concerning policing at sporting events. This is crucial as it was found that the attitude of overseas police forces heavily contributed to these unfortunate incidents.

Furthermore, the committee called for collaborative efforts between the government, police, and sporting bodies to establish a centralized system for reporting and documenting instances of discrimination and antisocial behavior. To address concerns over drug-related issues within sporting events, particularly involving Class A substances which are on the rise, further research must be undertaken by law enforcement agencies. Additionally, enhancing safety standards through minimum stewarding requirements would also contribute towards mitigating risks.

The report additionally expressed support for encouraging safe standing pilots in clubs that possess comprehensive stewarding plans. However, it urged the Sports Ground Safety Authority to update its Green Guide to encompass accessibility and inclusion requirements when constructing new or redeveloped stadiums.