Sports bodies urge stronger safety measures after photographers injured during post-match pitch disturbance
Lausanne | By Rudy Nuyens – AIPS EC Member
The International Sports Press Association (AIPS) and the German Sports Press Association (VDS) have called for urgent dialogue with Bayern Munich and UEFA following incidents at the end of last week’s UEFA Champions League match in Munich.
The call comes after three sports photographers were injured when fans attempted to enter the pitch after the match between Bayern Munich and Real Madrid. According to reports, one photographer briefly lost consciousness during the incident.
In a formal letter issued by AIPS and its Football Working Group, both Bayern Munich and UEFA were urged to engage in constructive discussions aimed at strengthening safety measures, particularly in the vulnerable zone between the stands and the pitch where media personnel operate.
While acknowledging UEFA’s immediate decision to open an investigation, AIPS emphasized that further action is necessary. The organization stressed that, regardless of responsibility, all parties must take concrete steps to prevent similar incidents and ensure that sports photographers can work in safe conditions.
The German Sports Press Association (VDS) also addressed both Bayern Munich and UEFA, calling for a coordinated approach to improve safety protocols. The association outlined key areas requiring attention, including clearer definition and protection of restricted zones, improved preventive mechanisms to avoid escalation, and stronger communication between security personnel and accredited media representatives.
VDS further highlighted the importance of ensuring that concerns raised by media personnel on-site are taken seriously and addressed promptly.
The incident occurred at the Football Arena Munich following the Champions League quarter-final second-leg match between Bayern Munich and Real Madrid. This has renewed concerns about the safety of media professionals covering major sporting events, particularly in high-risk environments near the field of play.
AIPS and VDS have called for inclusive dialogue among all stakeholders to establish stronger safeguards and prevent future incidents, with a focus on protecting sports journalists and photographers working on the ground.