UEFA’s action plan for fan safeguarding welcomed by law firm representing over 1150 clients as legal claims move forward

The changes have come about after the independent review UEFA commissioned concluded that the association bears “primary responsibility” for the catastrophic organisational and safety failures that occurred at the Stade de France on 28th May 2022.

UEFA's new measures include:

• Working closely with supporters’ groups to gather information about numbers of fans travelling to the host city;
• Resources to enhance 'welcome services' for fans, particularly along the last kilometre of stadium access routes;
• Appropriate signage at key entry points to the stadium;
• Medical and first aid personnel will be visible and accessible, including at turnstile gates and on the stadium concourse;
• Dedicated supporter liaison officers;
• Improved standards and stadium infrastructure for supporters with disabilities;
• Dedicated staff at each turnstile to help fans with ticket issues;
• Increased number of UEFA safety and security officers.

Leigh Day is bringing the group claim on the basis that UEFA failed to ensure a safe and secure environment for those attending and owe a legal liability to those who suffered physical and/or psychological injuries.

In a joint statement, Clare Campbell and Jill Paterson, partners at Leigh Day, said:

“With the anniversary of last year’s final just around the corner, we are pleased that UEFA has made a commitment to implement the recommendations in the report.

“While this is a positive step that will hopefully ensure other football supporters will not experience anything like the horrific events that Liverpool fans went through last year, it does not undo the damage that was done on the day.

“Many of the clients we represent are still suffering the effects, both mentally and physically, and we will continue to proceed with legal action on their behalf.”

Leigh Day has formally filed 886 claims against UEFA.