“Atmosphere can be different”: New campaign warns of firework dangers in football stadiums

A new campaign has been launched to highlight the dangers of fireworks and other pyrotechnics at football matches. The campaign is run by the Burns Foundation and the Federal Public Service for Home Affairs.

Over the past four football seasons, at least 579 people have been injured in incidents involving fireworks, flares or smoke bombs in stadiums. Injuries include burns, hearing damage and eye injuries.

Under the slogan “Atmosphere can be different”, supporters are urged not to bring fireworks, flares or smoke devices to matches. The campaign uses real images of people who were injured in pyrotechnic incidents to show the risks.

Fireworks have been banned in football stadiums for years, yet they are still used regularly. The problem is getting worse. In the 2021-2022 season, around 50 supporters were injured. This rose to 152 in each of the next two seasons. In the 2024-2025 season, the number climbed to 235.

Interior minister Bernard Quintin said injuries continue to rise despite tougher penalties. He stressed that the aim of the campaign is to stop illegal and dangerous behaviour and keep all supporters safe.

The campaign is part of the wider action plan “Together for safe football”, developed with the Pro League, the Belgian Football Association and other partners.

^{© BELGA PHOTO JILL DELSAUX}