Access to the Vélodrome stadium in and around Marseille will be banned on Sunday for security reasons for PSG fans who face OM in the 10th matchday of L1, the police chief of Bouches-du-Pont announced on Friday.
The presence of Parisian fans in and around the stadium “implies serious risks to the safety of people and property,” said police prefect Olivier de Mazières.
A decree published on Friday therefore provides that “from Sunday 22 October 2017 at 8.00 am to Monday 23 October 2017 at 4.00 am, access to the Orange is prohibited to anyone who declares themselves a Paris St Germain fan or behaves as such. Vélodrome Stadium of Marseille and circulate or park on public roads within the perimeter delimited by the surrounding streets.
“Relationships marked by animosity for many years”
The stadium should be full, and the prefect recalls that “relations between the fans of Olympique Marseille and Paris Saint-Germain have been characterized by animosity for many years, as demonstrated by the recurrence of the serious public order disorders observed during the matches between these two teams.”
The prefect mentions in particular “damage to the coaches of visiting players, violence against the police or throwing of firecrackers, smoke bombs or explosive materials” during the matches of 7 February 2016 and 26 February 2017.
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Sports Security Expert
Time.news Editor: Welcome, everyone, to another edition of Time.news Insights! Today, we have with us Dr. Emilie Rochefort, a leading expert in sports security and crowd management. Thank you for joining us, Dr. Rochefort.
Dr. Emilie Rochefort: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to discuss such an important topic.
Editor: So, the recent announcement regarding the Vélodrome stadium in Marseille has sparked a lot of conversations. The authorities have decided to ban access for PSG fans during their match against OM due to security concerns. Can you shed some light on why such drastic measures are sometimes necessary?
Rochefort: Absolutely. The rivalry between Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Olympique de Marseille (OM) is one of the most intense in football. With strong emotions running high, past matches have seen instances of violence and unrest. Safety must be the top priority for both fans and players, and sometimes restricting access is the most effective way to prevent potential clashes.
Editor: That makes sense. Can you talk about the specific security measures that are typically implemented in situations like this?
Rochefort: Certainly! In high-stakes matches, especially with a heated rivalry, police typically increase their presence around the stadium. This includes using surveillance technology, coordinating with security personnel, and creating controlled entry points. In this case, banning access for specific fan groups is a proactive approach to mitigate risks during the event.
Editor: It seems like these measures are not just reactive but proactive in nature. Do you think there are long-term strategies that clubs and authorities can adopt to improve the situation?
Rochefort: Definitely! Education plays a crucial role. Clubs should work on campaigns that promote sportsmanship and respect among fans. Additionally, strong partnerships between clubs and law enforcement can foster better communication and planning for matches. Initiatives such as fan forums or Q&A sessions can also help bridge gaps and coordinate efforts more effectively.
Editor: Those are great ideas! With digital platforms being so prevalent today, do you think they could play a role in enhancing fan engagement positively?
Rochefort: Absolutely. Social media can be leveraged to promote positive narratives and good behavior among fans. Clubs could create campaigns that highlight the joy of football and the community aspect, which might help reduce the propensity for violence. Moreover, digital platforms can facilitate dialogue between fans and clubs, allowing concerns to be addressed more openly.
Editor: You’ve provided some valuable insights! In your experience, have you seen any particular match or scenario that highlights the effectiveness of these security protocols?
Rochefort: Yes, one example that comes to mind is the implementation of fan zones in several European leagues, where supporters can gather before matches in a safe environment. These zones often include entertainment, food, and activities that help diffuse tensions before a game. When properly managed, they can lead to a more positive atmosphere, even in high-stakes situations.
Editor: That’s a fantastic approach! As we look forward to the PSG vs. OM match, what advice would you give to supporters to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience?
Rochefort: I’d advise fans to stay informed about the rules and restrictions in place, respect law enforcement, and engage in positive cheers rather than hostile behavior. Remember, football is about community and enjoyment, and it is crucial that we foster an environment where everyone feels safe attending the match.
Editor: Wise words indeed! Thank you so much, Dr. Rochefort, for your insights today. It’s crucial for all involved in sports to prioritize safety while enjoying the beautiful game.
Rochefort: Thank you for having me! Let’s all look forward to a safe and exciting match day.
Editor: And thank you, everyone, for tuning in! Stay safe and enjoy the matches this weekend.