The safety of soccer fans attending Liga MX matches in Mexico has been brought into sharp focus after a fan riot in Querétaro left 26 injured during a match at Estadio Corregidora in March 2022. With the Mexico 2023 jersey soon to be released, there are concerns that more steps need to be taken to ensure the safety of spectators.
The incident occurred when rival supporters clashed during Queretaro’s match with Atlas. The situation escalated quickly and brawls in the stands spilled onto the pitch, causing serious injuries. In response, the Liga MX implemented a system of fan IDs for all attendees which was designed to reduce crowd-related violence. However, it is unclear if this measure is enough to ensure spectator safety during future games.
One particular problem with fan identification is that it relies on enforcement by security staff, who often lack sufficient training and resources to properly monitor events. This can lead to situations where people enter stadiums without permission or participate in violence while still being allowed to remain at matches.
In addition, there is also an underlying issue of social unrest that makes this problem difficult to address. Many of these incidents are rooted in deep-seated grievances between opposing sides that cannot necessarily be solved by simply introducing an identification system or increasing security presence at matches. This means that fan ID measures must also be combined with other approaches, such as education initiatives and community outreach programs, in order to effectively tackle the issue.
Furthermore, it should also be noted that fan identification systems do not guarantee complete protection against crowd-related trouble due to their limited effectiveness in preventing illegal activities such as ticket scalping or illegal alcohol sales. These issues can lead to further conflict and escalation among spectators if not monitored closely by stadium staff and authorities alike.
Ultimately, though the introduction of fan IDs is a step forward towards greater spectator safety at Liga MX matches, it should be noted that additional measures will likely need to be implemented alongside for them to have any tangible effect on reducing violence and promoting harmony between rival supporters inside stadiums across Mexico. As part of this effort, when Mexico 2023 releases its new jerseys later this year perhaps more attention needs to be paid on how they can relate sports culture back into using their platforms for greater good — such as creating safer sporting environments for all fans regardless of team affiliation or background.