Leeds have confirmed they will issue one-year bans to parents who allow their children to run on the pitch during match days
Leeds United have confirmed that they will issue bans to parents and guardians who allow children to run onto the pitch during games.
The last few months have seen a recent spark in the number of pitch invasions from young supporters, but the Yorkshire club are looking to clamp down on the problem, stating that they will issue a one-year ban from Elland Road should parents and guardians be found guilty of allowing their children to enter the pitch.
A statement on the club’s website reminded supporters that encroachment of the pitch is classed as a criminal offence.
Leeds United have said they will issue parents a one-year ban from games if their children invade the pitch. #LUFC
The club's statement follows a number of recent incidents involving young fans being sent onto the field.
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It read: “Leeds United would like to remind fans that encroachment on the pitch will not be permitted at any time and is a criminal offence.
“The pitch is part of the Red Zone* for any matchday (along with the technical area, tunnel and dressing rooms) which is a policy that has been put in place to keep players, staff, and our supporters as safe as possible – therefore the club will be taking serious action against anyone entering the field of play.
“We will have a zero-tolerance approach to those invading the pitch and those putting players at risk, with football banning orders issued to any supporters identified.
“The recent trend with incidents have included young supporters being sent onto the pitch and this will not be tolerated whether it is before, during or after a game, in these cases the parents or guardians of the juniors in question will be given a one-year ban from matches.
“The support and atmosphere created at Elland Road by our fans is incredible, but it is the safety of everyone attending the matches that is the club’s priority at all times, and this includes players and officials.”
Related links:
- Chelsea pitch invader can’t be arrested as WCL matches aren’t ‘designated matches’
- Cristiano Ronaldo chased by pitch invader after victory over Atalanta
- FAI confirm they won’t fine young girl who ran on pitch to get Ronaldo’s shirt
