European football’s governing body is cracking down on the use of pyrotechnics which they deem dangerous to spectators.
| Photo: Helge Prang/Getty Images. |
VfB Stuttgart and SC Freiburg have been slapped with sanctions by UEFA after their recent involvement in the Europa League.
Both clubs have been given a partial spectator ban for their supporters’ use of pyrotechnics – albeit on probation for two years.
Pyrotechnics were reported to be in use during Stuttgart’s 2-0 defeat to FC Basel and Freiburg’s 1-1 stalemate with Bologna on October 2.
However, recurring offenses committed by fans of either team will result in further action which could hurt the two clubs financially.
Freiburg would have to close Block C on the South Stand, and Stuttgart would no longer be allowed to sell away tickets.
Furthermore, both clubs must also pay a fine of €20,000 each for their fans’ part in both respective incidents.
The Breisgauers will indirectly benefit from a UEFA fine imposed on OGC Nice during their upcoming the away game on November 6.
Two fan sections behind the goal at the Stade de Nice will stay empty due to the use of pyrotechnics by their fans against AS Roma on 24 September.
