‘Many of the fans were violently assaulted, harassed and robbed…’
Real Madrid have released a statement calling for answers from UEFA and French authorities after their supporters were caught up in the chaotic scenes before and during last weekend’s Champions League final against Liverpool in Paris.
Liverpool fans were teargassed and denied entry into the Stade de France for game – with kick-off being delayed three times. Supporters were also left stranded in long queues and were forcibly denied entry, despite many having legitimate tickets.
French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin swiftly placed the blame for the trouble at the feet of ‘British supporters’, prompting many to assume Real supporters had experienced no trouble in entering the stadium.
Real Madrid fans also affected by stadium entry trouble
In the last week, however, it has become clear this was not the case, with numerous fans of the Spanish club coming forward with their own stories.
The 14-times European champions have now followed this with a statement which confirms their fans were also victims of the shambolic lack of organisation and demands to know why the Stade de France was selected to host the game.
‘We want to know what the reasons were that motivated that designation of the venue of the final and what criteria were taken into consideration taking into account what happened that day,’ the statement reads.
It continues: ‘Likewise, we ask for answers and explanations that determine who was responsible for leaving the fans helpless and defenceless. Some supporters whose general behaviour was at all times exemplary.
‘We understand that what should have been a great celebration of football for all the fans who attended the game turned into unfortunate events that have caused deep outrage around the world.
‘As has been clearly seen in the revealing images offered by the media, many of the fans were violently assaulted, harassed and robbed.
‘Some events that also took place when they were driving in their cars or buses fearing for their physical integrity. Some of them even had to spend the night in the hospital for injuries received.
‘Football has transmitted to the world an image far removed from the values and objectives that it must always pursue.
‘Our supporters and fans deserve a response and that the relevant responsibilities be cleared up so that situations like the ones experienced are eradicated forever from football and sport.’
Comunicado Oficial.#RealMadrid
— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) June 3, 2022
Real follow Liverpool in demanding answers
Real’s statement follows condemnation from Liverpool and calls from the UK government for UEFA to launch a formal investigation.
Despite this, French ministers have continued to blame Liverpool supporters without official tickets for the trouble.
French Sports Minister Amélie Oudéa-Castéra blamed a ‘mass gathering’ of supporters outside the Stade de France, with UEFA also citing the use of ‘fake tickets’ as the reason behind the problems.
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