A total of 1,194 police reports for breaches of football law were processed during the 2023-2024 season, the Home Affairs Ministry reported on Thursday. These high figures are the result of stricter stadium behaviour laws.
Sanctions were imposed for nearly 90% of the 1,194 reports. According to the ministry, these penalties were "stricter than ever." The average length of stadium bans and the average amount of administrative fines both increased by 40%, totalling 16,930 months of bans and €890,350 in fines.
The most common offences include inciting hatred or violence, assault within stadiums, possession, handling or launching pyrotechnic devices and throwing objects.
"The strengthening of football law had a clear impact during the 2023-2024 season," noted the ministry. Introduced in June 2023, this law enables the government to act more strictly and effectively against inappropriate behaviour in football stadiums.
"Although the figures demonstrate stricter enforcement, prevention remains an essential component of the security policy. This is why the DG Sécurité & Prévention regularly calls for projects, and funds innovative solutions for a safer environment in and around our stadiums," the ministry explained.
Outgoing Home Affairs Minister Annelies Verlinden (CD&V) sees the figures as a success. "This sends a clear message as a government. We must keep the focus on football safety high on the political agenda, including in the next legislature."
