Madrid, Spain – Atletico Madrid has made the decision to prohibit Athletic Club fans from purchasing tickets for their upcoming La Liga match at the end of April. This move follows a violent incident where an Atletico fan was hospitalized before their recent Copa del Rey semi-final matchup, which Athletic won 4-0 on aggregate.
The altercation took place when a group of Atletico supporters was attacked by Athletic hooligans at a bar near San Mames. The partner of the injured fan described the situation as a dangerous trap, expressing the belief that the attackers intended to cause harm. She also recounted that when authorities were contacted, they claimed to lack adequate resources to address the situation.
According to a statement released by Atletico, the club had raised concerns prior to the match about the safety of their traveling fans and the need for increased security measures. Condemning the violence that occurred, Atletico announced an agreement with the police to restrict the sale of tickets to Athletic fans for their upcoming La Liga fixture at the Metropolitano in late April.
The decision to deny Athletic Club supporters access to tickets for the match signifies Atletico Madrid’s commitment to prioritizing fan safety and preventing further incidents of violence. This action reflects the club’s dedication to ensuring a secure and welcoming environment for all attendees at their matches. The move also underscores the ongoing challenges faced by football clubs and authorities in managing fan behavior and maintaining security at sporting events.
In response to the incident, both clubs are expected to work closely with local law enforcement to address safety concerns and prevent future clashes between supporters. The incident highlights the need for proactive measures to enhance security and protect fans from harm in a highly charged and competitive sporting environment. As the investigation continues, authorities will seek to hold accountable those responsible for the violence, emphasizing the importance of promoting a culture of respect and peaceful coexistence among football fans.