UEFA Apologizes for Chaos at Champions League Final: "Will Confirm Responsibility"

Marcelo (34), captain of Real Madrid in the Spanish La Liga, is raising the trophy high on the 29th (local time) at the Cibeles Square in downtown Madrid to celebrate the team's 14th UEFA Champions League (UCL) victory. Real Madrid won the Champions League this season by defeating Liverpool (England) 1-0 on the 28th at Stade de France in Saint-Denis, France. [Image source=Yonhap News]

The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) has apologized for the chaos that occurred during the 2021-2022 Champions League final.

On the 4th (Korean time), UEFA issued a statement saying, "We sincerely apologize to all spectators who had to endure or witness frightening and painful incidents during the preparations for the Champions League final, which should have been a celebration of European club football."

The Champions League final held on the 29th of last month at Stade de France in Saint-Denis, France, between Real Madrid (Spain) and Liverpool (England), was marred by several disturbances off the pitch.

Fans who could not obtain tickets flocked to the stadium, causing delays in entry even for those holding tickets, as they had to wait outside the gates, resulting in the match starting about 30 minutes late.

Some Liverpool fans attempted to enter by climbing over the stadium walls, and in response, the police sprayed tear gas and pepper spray even towards children and disabled individuals, drawing criticism for excessive force.

In connection with this, French Interior Minister G?rald Darmanin blamed Liverpool fans, raising concerns that the issue might escalate into an international dispute between the UK and France.

UEFA stated, "No football fan should ever be put in such a situation, and this must never happen again," adding, "Immediately after the tournament, an independent investigation team will be formed to identify the problems and responsibilities of all parties involved in the management of the final."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.