Viennese Football Clubs Rapid Wien and Austria Wien Ban Away Fans After Violent Derby

Viennese football clubs Rapid Wien and Austria Wien have agreed to hold their next four games without away fans after their recent derby match resulted in at least thirteen injuries. The clubs aim to ensure fan safety and prevent further violence, while working on measures to reintegrate away fans in the future.

Viennese football clubs Rapid Wien and Austria Wien have reached an agreement to hold the next four games between them without away fans, following a violence-marred derby that ended with at least thirteen injuries.

The clubs announced that the measure is needed to best guarantee fan safety. They also mentioned ongoing efforts to create a safe environment for the return of away fans in the coming months. "This is the best way of preventing further damage to SK Rapid," the Austrian Bundesliga leaders stated.

"Violence should not and must not have a place in our sport," the clubs emphasized. Prior to and during the match, fans set off pyrotechnics, leading to violent clashes and a pitch invasion. Videos circulated online showed masked individuals on the field, with smoke from pyrotechnics and physical altercations. Viennese police confirmed that ten officers and at least three fans were injured, with criminal charges brought against four individuals.

Rapid Wien triumphed in the derby with a 2-1 victory.

(With inputs from agencies.)