Hammarby to reduce arena capacity

Söderstadion, the home ground of Hammarby, got an increase in capacity a couple of years ago, from approximately 11 000 spectators to more than 16 000. But now, it’s written on Hammarby official site, the capacity is going to be reduced until next season. The reason for that is the tragic events during the seasons with supporters throwing coins, firecrackers and other items at the assistant referee (who’s positioned in front of the supporter section). Repeatedly, the matches were paused as the referees evacuated the field. Never was a match aborted, but the interruptions have led to high fines and the relations with media are strained to say the least…

Now, Hammarby is acting. The capacity will be reduced to a mere 13 000, with the most dramatic changes on the stands behind one of the goals. But the supporter section will also be affected, as the rows closest to the field will be removed, pushing the spectators farther away from the assistant referee.

In my opinion, I don’t think these actions will solve any problems. The responsibilities always lie with the individual, and it’s difficult to see how any of this will prevent a moron to do something stupid. The supporters must take collective responsibility, and in the extreme case rear individuals physically. But nevertheless, the reduction of the capacity will surely fire up the discussion, as has already happened on various forums on the Internet.