Sanctions for Disorders in Professional Football May 10 2023

Introduction: 

Maintaining order and ensuring the safety of players, officials, and spectators is paramount in professional football. To address instances of disorder that occur in and around stadiums, independent prosecutors for professional football associations have imposed sanctions on clubs. These sanctions aim to hold clubs accountable for the actions of their supporters and promote a safe and respectful environment for all stakeholders involved in the game. This article provides an overview of the sanctions imposed on various clubs as accepted by professional football associations. 

Eredivisie Sanctions: 

PSV: 

PSV has been subjected to the following sanctions: 

• A fine of €11,000. 

• Suspension of PSV's right to obtain tickets for the next away match of their 1st team in the KNVB competition, cup competition, or play-offs. This sanction is subject to a probationary period of 2 years. 

• In addition to the previously imposed plan of action for the disorder. 

These sanctions were imposed on PSV in response to disturbances caused by their supporters during the match between FC Utrecht and PSV on February 19, 2023. The reported disturbances included the setting off of fireworks during player arrivals and the throwing of fireworks onto the playing field. 

FC Twente:

FC Twente has faced the following sanctions: 

• A fine of €10,000. 

• A home game of FC Twente's first team to be played without (if possible, the responsible part of the) audience in the KNVB competition, cup competition, or play-offs. This sanction is subject to a probationary period of 2 years. 

These sanctions were imposed on FC Twente due to disturbances caused by their supporters during the match against Feyenoord on January 29, 2023. The disturbances involved the setting off of fireworks and the throwing of cups with liquid toward or onto the playing field. 

FC Volendam:

FC Volendam has received the following sanction: 

• A fine of €10,000. 

This sanction was imposed on FC Volendam for disturbances caused by their supporters during the match against FC Emmen on March 4, 2023. The reported disturbance involved the setting off of fireworks. 

Disciplinary Liability for Disorder: 

Professional football organizations (BVOs) bear disciplinary liability for disorder committed by their supporters in and around stadiums. BVOs are expected to take all necessary measures to prevent disorder, counteract any incidents, and identify individuals responsible for misconduct. By demonstrating that they have implemented appropriate preventive measures and promptly addressed any disorder, BVOs can avoid liability for such incidents. 

The independent prosecutor conducts investigations into incidents of disorder and may propose a settlement to the BVO or refer the case to the independent disciplinary committee for professional football. The disciplinary bodies consider the BVO's penalty card, which reflects their disciplinary history when determining the level of sanctions. 

Conclusion: 

The imposition of sanctions for disorder in professional football underscores the commitment of football associations to maintaining order and ensuring the safety of all participants and spectators. By holding clubs accountable for the actions of their supporters, the football associations aim to create a positive and respectful environment within stadiums. It is crucial for professional football organizations to take proactive measures to prevent disorder and swiftly address any incidents that may occur. This collective effort contributes to the integrity and enjoyment of the game, benefiting players, officials, and fans alike.