2 of 3

Write now Article Tools

Football hooliganism, long associated with British football after notorious riots and violence surrounding football matches both home and away mainly in the 1970's and 1980's, has recently increased following a period of relative calm. Now the focus of the problem appears to be concentrated in Italy as well as a Argentina.

Following the huge debate over football hooliganism in British football the footballing authorities along with the government initiated a series of changes which has successfully resulted in a sharp decline in football related violence both domestically and internationally. The stands at British grounds were redesigned so everyone had a seat and stands were divided for home and away teams, something which was not required before. This ensured rival supporters were separated once inside the stadium and now with everyone having their own seat it prevented people moving around the stadia and fights which broke out when fans hit into each other while standing. The banning of certain objects from grounds and in some cases alcohol bans removed much of the provocation to incite violence.

The addition of stewards and a strong police presence inside grounds has also proved a useful deterrent. European nations such as France and Italy brutally suppress any violence. The age of technology has made it easy for clubs and police to identify trouble-makers and these are banned from stadiums and have their passports taken away when significant matches take place abroad.

Outside stadiums police break up large groups of supporters and armed with batons deal with trouble quickly. Offenders are fined and often given prison sentences for football hooliganism.

Many nations have implemented similar measures and have given authority for the regional football body eg. UEFA and even the world body FIFA to ban sides whose supporters cause trouble as well as fining the club and even deducting points.

However, the fight against football hooliganism will continue for many years to come and it is never going to be truly eradicated from football.

Learn more about this author, Patrick McGowan.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about What nations are doing to stop soccer hooligans?
We want to hear your view. Write now!