The Scottish Government has announced a crackdown on the use of pyrotechnics and pitch invasions at football matches, with new legislation to strengthen Football Banning Orders (FBOs). The move follows a public consultation that received over 900 responses, with the Scottish FA, SPFL, and Police Scotland all backing tougher measures.
New Powers for Courts
Community Safety Minister Kirsten Oswald confirmed that the SNP Government will introduce legislation in the Scottish Parliament to give courts more effective powers. The new FBOs will specifically target the use of pyrotechnics, pitch invasions, and the throwing of missiles. Oswald stated: "The vast majority of football fans attend matches to support their team and are a credit to their clubs. However, a small minority are compromising the fan experience and the safety of players, officials and all in attendance through anti-social and criminal behaviour."
Rising Incidents Post-Pandemic
The use of flares and smoke bombs has surged in recent years, despite repeated warnings from clubs and police. It has been illegal to carry fireworks or flares into football matches since 2023, but the new FBOs are intended to act as a stronger deterrent. Recent high-profile incidents include a young supporter being scarred for life after being struck by a flare. Dundee supporter Levi Rennie, 10, was hit in the face by a lit explosive at McDiarmid Park in 2024, near his left eye, and could have lost his sight.
Impact on Families
Parents responding to the consultation said they were discouraged from taking children to away games due to fan behaviour. One parent commented: "The increase in violence and antisocial behaviour means that one of my children will not attend matches, as they are scared. I would also never take my child to an away fixture and frankly wouldn't attend myself."
Authorities United
In a joint submission, the SFA and SPFL acknowledged a visible increase in isolated but serious incidents post-Covid, including misuse of pyrotechnics, throwing objects, pitch invasions, and abusive conduct. They said these incidents impact safety, jeopardise wellbeing, and adversely affect the match-day experience for the majority of fans.
Next Steps
The Scottish Government aims to make football a safe and enjoyable environment for all. Oswald concluded: "Football is our national sport, and we want to make sure it is a safe and enjoyable environment for all and that is what we aim to achieve by introducing legislation."
