Security will be heightened at Champions League matches this week after a media outlet supporting the Islamic State group published threats against venues. Ministers in France and Spain have confirmed the implementation of enhanced security measures in response.
A pro-IS media channel disseminated several images of stadiums hosting quarter-final ties on Tuesday and Wednesday. Despite these threats, UEFA stated that games in Madrid, Paris, and London will proceed as scheduled.
French Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin assured “considerably reinforced” security measures for the PSG vs. Barcelona match in Paris on Wednesday. He emphasized recent threats by IS, urging caution given the significance of the Champions League.
In Madrid, where two quarter-finals are scheduled, Spain’s sports minister, Pilar Alegría, called for calm, stating that over 2,000 police and civil guard officers would be deployed. Madrid’s acting mayor, Inmaculada Sanz, reiterated that there’s no specific threat, although Spain’s terrorist alert level remains high.
Ahead of Arsenal’s match against Bayern Munich in London, Metropolitan Police Deputy Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan assured the public of a robust policing plan. The pro-IS channel targeted several stadiums, including the Emirates Stadium in London, the Bernabeu and Metropolitano Stadiums in Madrid, and the Parc des Princes Stadium in Paris.
Uefa, European football’s governing body, affirmed that all matches would proceed as scheduled with appropriate security arrangements. The threats coincide with heightened security concerns, especially with Germany set to host the Euro 2024 European Championships later this year.
Venue staff at the Emirates Stadium are working closely with the Metropolitan Police, ensuring the safety of all supporters and staff. Ade Adelekan stressed the need for vigilance, given the UK’s substantial terrorism threat level.
Overall, authorities and football organizations are taking proactive measures to ensure the safety and security of all attendees amidst heightened security concerns.
