Champions League final chaos shows France in bad light, say opposition leaders
GuardianMay 29, 2022
Paris police chief Didier Lallement acknowledged on Thurs. that security operations failed on May 28 when tear gas and pepper spray were fired at crowds of Liverpool fans, including children. Though he apologized, he argued this was the only way to move people back from the gates.
Following the incident, UEFA announced the opening of an independent and comprehensive review into the chaos at the game. The investigation will examine the responsibilities and behaviors of all entities involved.
French police are to blame for sticking to a confrontational doctrine, which has been widely used to shut down protests. Authorities must reinforce the preventive role of the police to avoid fiascos like this in the upcoming 2023 Rugby World Cup and the 2024 Paris Olympics.
French authorities cannot be blamed for the chaos as the entrance was blocked by Liverpool fans, more than two thirds of whom had fake tickets. French police acted out of a necessity to disperse the crowd and prevent invasions.
Events at the Champions League final are reminiscent of disasters such as Hillsborough and reveal that the tendency of authorities to mistreat football fans and blame them for organizational ineptitude continues. The widespread scapegoating of loyal and devoted supporters must be addressed.