The 2024-25 season in England and Wales saw disorder incidents at football matches rise by 18%, escalating from 1,341 to 1,583 incidents. Reports included violence, disorder, anti-social behaviour, and harm. This violence occurred at over half of the 3,090 matches played across various leagues and competitions. Arrests dropped by 11%, marking the first decrease since fans returned post-pandemic. The police face increasing demands at these events, leading calls for football clubs to contribute to policing costs, particularly as hate crimes formed the majority of reported incidents.
The number of football matches in England and Wales with reported incidents of disorder increased by 18% during the 2024-25 season, rising from 1,341 to 1,583 incidents.
The number of reported incidents includes football-related violence, disorder, anti-social behaviour and harm, with at least one incident occurring in over half of the 3,090 matches.
Chief Constable Mark Roberts emphasized that the figures illustrate the pressing need for football clubs to financially contribute towards the cost of policing matches.
Hate crime was reported at 420 matches, with the most common incidents tied to race and sexual orientation, showing significant issues of discrimination present in the sport.
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