FANS from Wales and Poland gearing up for Tuesday’s pivotal Euro 2024 play-off in Cardiff have been issued a stern warning: leave the flares and fireworks at home. This caution comes in the wake of previous incidents, notably in September 2022, when seven Poland fans were apprehended during the encounter between the two nations in Cardiff. Among them, four were caught in possession of pyrotechnics.
The Football Association of Wales (FAW) has made it unequivocally clear that employing pyrotechnics, a prohibited act within UK stadiums, will result in stringent repercussions. Those found in breach of this regulation face the prospect of being banned from future matches, as emphasized by the FAW.
With an estimated 1,900 Polish supporters anticipated in the packed 33,000-seater stadium, vigilance against such infractions is paramount.
This preemptive stance by the FAW follows previous incidents that incurred financial penalties. In 2022, FIFA levied a fine exceeding £14,500 against the FAW due to instances of flares being ignited by Welsh supporters during the World Cup play-off victories against Austria and Ukraine in Cardiff. Similarly, after a Europa Conference League clash between Aston Villa and Legia Warsaw in November, 46 Polish fans found themselves facing charges stemming from crowd disturbances.
The FAW has underscored the inherent dangers of pyrotechnics, particularly within dense crowds, where they pose severe risks such as loss of sight, limb injuries, or even fatalities. In response, stringent measures are being enforced, with perpetrators potentially facing arrest and a minimum three-year football banning order.
Superintendent Steve Rees of South Wales Police has reiterated the legal consequences associated with possessing or attempting to introduce pyrotechnic devices into football stadiums. Such actions constitute criminal offenses, warranting arrest and subsequent legal penalties, including football banning orders. Collaboration with Cardiff City Stadium staff remains integral to ensuring compliance with stadium regulations.
The stakes are high in Tuesday’s play-off, as the victor secures a coveted spot in Euro 2024, set to take place in Germany. As anticipation builds, both Welsh and Polish authorities are steadfast in their commitment to maintaining safety and order within the stadium premises.
