Madrid, Spain – Atletico Madrid has made the decision to prohibit the sale of tickets to Athletic Club fans for their upcoming La Liga clash at the end of April. This decision follows an incident where an Atletico fan was taken to the hospital before the Copa del Rey semi-final match, in which Athletic emerged victorious with a 4-0 aggregate score.
A group of Atletico supporters were reportedly assaulted by Athletic hooligans at a bar near San Mames. The partner of the injured fan described the harrowing experience as a “mouse trap,” indicating the severity of the situation. Reports suggest that when the police were alerted to the incident, they claimed they lacked the resources to intervene effectively.
According to an official statement released by Atletico, the club had raised concerns prior to the match about the safety of their traveling fans. They strongly condemned the violence that occurred and confirmed an agreement with the authorities to withhold ticket sales to Athletic fans for the upcoming fixture at the Metropolitano stadium.
The decision to bar Athletic fans from attending the match showcases Atletico’s commitment to ensuring the safety of all supporters. This move reflects the club’s determination to prevent further incidents of violence and uphold a secure environment for everyone at the stadium.
The clash between Atletico Madrid and Athletic Club goes beyond football rivalry, highlighting the need for enhanced security measures and fan protection. By taking proactive steps to address the recent violence, Atletico aims to set a precedent for other clubs to prioritize the safety and well-being of fans above all else.