The wider picture
The introduction of new legislation in England and Wales has made tailgating at football games a criminal offence. This decision comes in response to a review of crowd disorder at the Euro 2020 final, which highlighted significant security failures and raised concerns about fan safety. The law aims to deter individuals from entering football matches without a ticket by imposing strict penalties.
Under the new law, entering a football match without a ticket will result in a football banning order of up to five years and a maximum fine of £1,000. This measure is designed to address the issue of tailgating, where supporters illegally gain entry by following legitimate ticket holders through turnstiles. Prior to this legislation, there were no specific legal penalties for such actions, which has now changed to enhance the safety of all attendees.
The legislation was introduced following serious disorder at the Euro 2020 final, where an estimated 2,000 people entered the match illegally. The Football Association commissioned a report that indicated the chaos could have led to fatalities, prompting a need for immediate action. In addition to the new penalties for tailgating, the act also makes it illegal to use forged tickets or impersonate staff to gain entry.
Last year, 69 arrests were made at the Carabao Cup final for attempts to enter without a ticket, illustrating the scale of the issue. Furthermore, 400 fans were ejected from the Euro 2020 final, with 17 mass breaches reported at disabled access gates and emergency fire doors. These incidents have underscored the urgent need for stricter regulations to ensure the safety of fans.
Sarah Jones, a prominent advocate for fan safety, stated, “Football fans should be able to enjoy the game without feeling unsafe or threatened.” This sentiment reflects a growing concern among stakeholders regarding the need for a secure environment at sporting events. Baroness Louise Casey, who has been vocal about the implications of tailgating, remarked, “Forcing your way into a football match without a ticket isn’t harmless,” emphasizing the dangers associated with such behavior.
Baroness Casey further noted, “Making tailgating a criminal offence makes it clear that this behaviour is dangerous, won’t be tolerated and those who do it will face consequences.” This statement highlights the government’s commitment to addressing the issue and ensuring that football matches remain safe for all fans.
As the new law takes effect, officials and observers anticipate a significant reduction in incidents of tailgating and related disorder at football matches. The hope is that these measures will not only deter potential offenders but also restore confidence among fans regarding their safety at events. The implementation of these regulations marks a pivotal step towards a more secure and enjoyable atmosphere for football supporters across England and Wales.
