UEFA commissioned an Independent Review Panel to investigate the events which caused a great disturbance around Stade France in Paris ahead of, during, and after the Champions League final last year. The Panel has now published its report, and the early claims, which almost entirely blamed Liverpool fans for what happened, have been completely laid bare as untrue.
In the light of these findings, UEFA General Secretary Theodore Theodoridis felt it necessary to apologize in the name of the organization he represents.
“On behalf of UEFA, I would like to apologise most sincerely once again to all those who were affected by the events that unfolded on what should have been a celebration at the pinnacle of the club season,” he said.
“In particular, I would like to apologise to the supporters of Liverpool FC for the experiences many of them had when attending the game and for the messages released prior to and during the game which had the effect of unjustly blaming them for the situation leading to the delayed kick-off.”
“UEFA is committed to learning from the events of 28 May, and will cooperate closely with supporters’ groups, the finalist clubs, the host associations and local authorities in order to deliver outstanding finals where everyone can enjoy the game in a safe, secure and welcoming environment.”
Professor Clifford Stott, who was on the Panel itself, has revealed that the timely and appropriate reaction of the Liverpool fans present, particularly those with the experience of the 1989 Hillsborough Disaster in their minds, was actually the reason why no fatalities happened on 28 May, 2022.
UEFA bears “primary responsibility” for the chaotic scenes that “almost led to disaster” before last year’s Champions League final.
Professor Clifford Stott was part of a panel that looked into events before the match between Liverpool and Real Madridhttps://t.co/n6nSrx5p8X pic.twitter.com/4HEmhgSHBP
— BBC Breakfast (@BBCBreakfast) February 14, 2023
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