MADRID (AFP) – Real Madrid yesterday demanded an explanation for the way fans were treated at the Champions League final last weekend and said authorities must take responsibility for the ugly scenes in Paris which the club said were “far removed from the values” of the sport.
In the statement published “in defence of supporters”, Madrid asked why the Stade de France was chosen as the venue for the final against Liverpool and asked “who was responsible for leaving the fans helpless and defenceless”.
Some Madrid fans have said they were victims of crime after the match last Saturday, with many reporting being assaulted and robbed outside the stadium.
Before the game, thousands of Liverpool fans with tickets had to wait for hours to enter the ground, with French police using tear gas and pepper spray on crowds.
Some Liverpool supporters said they feared being crushed after small openings were used to filter the queues.
In a statement yesterday, Real Madrid said: “We understand that what should have been a great celebration of football for all the fans who attended the game turned into unfortunate events that have caused deep outrage around the world.
“As has been clearly seen in the revealing images offered by the media, many of the fans were violently assaulted, harassed and robbed.
“Some (of these) events also took place when they were driving in their cars or on buses, fearing for their physical well-being.
“Some of them even had to spend the night in the hospital for injuries received. Football has transmitted to the world an image far removed from the values and objectives that it must always pursue.
“Our followers and fans deserve a response and that the relevant responsibilities be taken so that situations like the ones experienced are eradicated forever from football and sport.”
