Two football fans have become the first to receive stadium bans under new tailgating legislation at last month's Carabao Cup final at Wembley. The new law on unauthorised entry to matches came into effect for the first time at the fixture between Arsenal and Manchester City on 22 March.
Kamal McEwan was handed a three-year banning order and fined £471 for unauthorised entry, marking the first sanction under the legislation. Alex Clark, from Waltham Cross, received a similar three-year ban and a £1,862 fine for unauthorised entry, along with an additional charge for possession of a Class A drug.
Both rulings were confirmed at Willesden Magistrates' Court on 10 April, according to a statement from Wembley Stadium. A third man is due to appear in court on 1 May.
Mark Lynch, Director at Wembley Stadium, said the swift arrests demonstrate the new legislation's immediate impact. Previously, there were no specific criminal penalties for attempting to enter without a ticket, placing pressure on crowd safety teams. He added that the cases send a clear message that unauthorised access will result in firm action, including large fines and lengthy banning orders.
Chief Inspector Pete Dearden of the Metropolitan Police stated that officers acted quickly and decisively, and that the convictions show antisocial and criminal behaviour at football matches will be met with enforcement. He emphasised continued partnership with venues and the FA to ensure safe environments for fans and staff.
