“The PSP is concerned about any violent act or inappropriate behavior, especially the use of pyrotechnics. We know this is a phenomenon not exclusive to the national reality, presenting a European-wide issue. The use of pyrotechnic articles has increased, which worries us due to the dangers they pose, both in terms of potential damage to nature (fires and/or pollution) and infrastructure (vehicles, buildings, etc.), as well as the risk and dangers to health and physical integrity,” stated a PSP release, hours before the start of the 92nd edition of the Premier League football season.
The latest Report on Violence Associated with Sports (RAViD) outlines that the National Sports Information Point (PNID) recorded 8,879 incidents at sporting events in 2023/24, with 5,673 involving the use or detonation of pyrotechnics (63.9%), a situation attributed to various factors.
The PSP highlighted the social normalization of this phenomenon, along with indiscriminate use during celebrations, easy access via digital sales channels, and concealment on entry to sports venues, ignorance of its dangers, pressure at checkpoints, and motivation of organized fan groups (GOA) for its introduction and detonation.
The PSP emphasized the importance of adhering to the instructions and guidelines of police and sports venue assistants (ARD), “avoiding behaviors that could jeopardize the safety or atmosphere of events, such as the use of pyrotechnics, acts of violence, or disrespect for stadium rules and regulations.”
“The PSP continues to advocate for ‘fair play’ and the promotion of a safe, secure, and welcoming environment at all events, stressing that everyone should strive to say no to violence, racism, xenophobia, and intolerance in any environment, including sports,” it noted.
To ensure safety at sporting events, the PSP urged the public to promote mutual respect with opponents, referees, players, and other spectators, regardless of the game’s outcome, to avoid provocations or insults, and to demonstrate exemplary behavior, especially from parents and guardians of minors.
The responsible consumption of alcohol, moderate celebrations, and cooperation with authorities are other recommendations, with fans encouraged to immediately report any suspicious or violent conduct to the PSP and/or ARD.
National champion Sporting will visit Casa Pia at 20:15, at the Municipal Stadium of Rio Maior, for the inaugural match of the 2025/26 Premier League, under the arbitration of Gustavo Correia from Porto.
