Benelux investigates cross-border stadium bans in football

A Benelux working group is examining how cross-border stadium bans can be applied practically and legally in football. The working group plans to present recommendations in the course of this year. This was announced by the General Secretariat of the Benelux Union on Wednesday.

The mayors of Antwerp and Lier recently expressed their concern about Dutch supporters attending football matches in Belgium, while they are banned from entering football stadiums in the Netherlands. They called on the government to take action. Alain de Muyser, Secretary-General of the Benelux Union, informed the two mayors that this problem is on the agenda of consultations between the three countries.

A working group, including representatives from the police authorities, the ministries of the Interior in Belgium, and Justice and Security in the Netherlands, is currently examining how cross-border stadium bans can be applied from a practical and legal point of view. "Their recommendations are expected by the end of this year," explains communications consultant Nick Van Haver. 

They are also considering the creation of a single communication platform to optimise the exchange of information between all partners involved in football. Specific priority subjects such as the use of fireworks in and around football stadiums are also on the agenda. The recommendations will then be passed on to the respective governments.

(TOM)

A Beerschot fan invades the pitch during the derby between Royal Antwerp FC and Beerschot - © BELGA PHOTO TOM GOYVAERTS