In the wake of violent crowd trouble during the recent Vienna derby between Rapid Vienna and Austria Vienna, the Austrian Bundesliga has announced that away fans will be barred from attending the next four derbies. This decision follows a chaotic scene at Rapid’s Allianz Stadion, where at least 13 individuals were injured, including 10 police officers and three fans, after a pitch invasion occurred at the final whistle of the match, which Rapid won 2-1.
Reports indicate that fans from both clubs ignited pyrotechnics before the game, leading to violent clashes throughout the match. In response to the escalating tensions, a meeting was convened between league officials and the two clubs on Monday. The goal is to establish a safer environment for future Vienna derbies, with Bundesliga chief executive Christian Ebenbauer emphasizing the need for the matches to reflect the positive spirit of the league and the country.
Both clubs have condemned the violence. Rapid Vienna’s president, Alexander Wrabetz, stated that there is “no place for violence” and called for effective solutions to ensure that the derbies can once again be celebrated as football festivals for all participants. Following the incident, police have filed criminal charges against over 150 individuals involved in the disturbances.
Although the away section will remain closed to visiting fans, it will be made available to certain home fans and charitable organizations. Austria Vienna board member Harald Zagiczek acknowledged the difficulty of this decision, noting that it was made with safety in mind. He condemned the actions of those who threw fireworks and promised to impose the strictest sanctions possible to prevent such incidents in the future.
As the Bundesliga works to restore safety and order, both clubs are committed to ensuring that future derbies honor the rich tradition of rivalry while prioritizing the well-being of fans and players alike.
