As I wrote before we are facing discussions about new safety rules in German stadiums.
Today I read an interview with Kevin Miles, Director of FSF talking about The Premiere League and English football culture ("Kicker Sportmagazin", 10.12.)
He's a Magpies fan.
Some statements or informations I find interesting:
- England has no problems with bengal fires because there are no Ultras in England.
He assumes that this has to do with the fact that English/British fans are more interested to see what happens on the pitch instead celebrating themselves.
- Tickets have become too expensive, therefore the average age for a Premiere Leage Season ticket holder increased from 35 (1995) to 45 today. Young people cant afford to buy tickets anymore.
- The Premiere League atmosphere is worse compared to other European leagues.
He suggests to bring back the fans from the upper tier to the lower tier closer to the pitch.
- After Hillsborough Policemen were reduced and nowadays Stewards take care of the fans in the stadium and it works. (=> In my opinion this wouldnt work in German stadiums)
- Tickets for away fans are not personalised, he says that would lead to decreasing attendance numbers. (=> discussed in Germany at the moment)
- most of us German fans thought that alcohol isnt sold at Premiere League stadiums (me too
) but Kevin Miles says sure they do. But you are not allowed to take your beer with you to your seat.