It is worth noting that no one died. This is the conclusion of an independent report on the chaos before last May’s Champions League football final in Paris.
The study, commissioned by European football’s governing body UEFA, blames the federation for organisational errors that almost led to a disaster, according to the report. And the report exonerates the fans of finalists Liverpool FC, who were hastily blamed for the turmoil and tear gas deployments.
In this context, the study criticised the French authorities and the security forces for pre-judgements and inappropriate intervention against Liverpool fans. Many of them had been refused entry to the Stade de France in the Parisian suburb of Saint-Denis despite having valid tickets.
As a consequence, the authors of the study made 21 recommendations for future sporting events in front of large crowds.
As a result of its eight-month investigation, the UEFA Independent Panel has made 21 recommendations:
– Liverpool FC (@LFC) February 14, 2023
More than 230 people were injured in the chaos. As a consequence, Paris police prefect Didier Lallement had to resign. Liverpool FC club boss Billy Hogan commented personally on the findings of the investigation report in a video posted on Twitter. Today, several Liverpool FC fans are still being treated for trauma suffered during the incidents at the stadium.
Liverpool FC’s chief executive officer Billy Hogan today offered his reaction to UEFA’s independent report on the events at the 2022 Champions League final in Paris.
– Liverpool FC (@LFC) February 14, 2023
On the occasion of the publication of the report, UEFA again apologised to the Liverpool FC fans affected. It said it was working on a refund for the fans. The club itself welcomed the findings of the investigation.