Vienna Derby Excludes Away Fans After Violence

Vienna officials have decided to exclude away fans from the next four matches between Rapid Vienna and Austria Vienna following crowd violence at the recent derby. The decision comes after incidents at Rapid’s Allianz Stadion during Sunday’s game which left at least 13 people injured including 10 police officers and three fans. Prior to the match, supporters of both teams ignited pyrotechnics leading to violent clashes throughout the game which Rapid won 2-1.

In response to the chaos, league officials and club representatives held an emergency meeting on Monday where they initiated a collaborative effort to ensure safer and more enjoyable Vienna derbies in the future. Bundesliga chief executive Christian Ebenbauer emphasized the need for the matches to be positive showcases for the league and the country, highlighting the derby’s prestigious status in the football world.

Rapid president Alexander Wrabetz condemned the violence and insisted on finding effective solutions for the future to restore the matches as celebratory events for fans. In light of the situation, police have filed criminal charges against over 150 individuals involved in the disturbances. Although away fans will not be permitted at the next four derbies, the away section will remain open for select home fans and charitable organizations.

Austria Vienna board member Harald Zagiczek acknowledged the difficult decision, stating that the primary concern is safety for families attending the games. He condemned the violent actions witnessed during the derby, particularly the use of firecrackers against people and affirmed the club’s commitment to impose the strictest sanctions possible against such behavior. Both clubs aim to restore the Vienna derby as a festival of football for all involved.