The excitement around the upcoming revamped Club World Cup in the United States is building, but there’s a twist for some Manchester City and Chelsea fans.
As both clubs get ready to compete in the tournament, a strict measure has been put in place that will prevent certain supporters from attending.
The move is aimed at those with a history of causing trouble, with around 150 individuals being ordered to surrender their passports.
The Ban on Travel for Troublemakers
This summer, troublemakers linked to Manchester City and Chelsea will face travel restrictions during the Club World Cup, which kicks off on June 14.
Around 150 fans who have been issued football banning orders will be prohibited from flying to the U.S. for the tournament, which is set to run until July 13.
Letters will soon be sent to these supporters, instructing them to hand over their passports to the police.
If they fail to comply, they could face severe consequences, including a six-month prison sentence or an unlimited fine.
Football Banning Orders and the Rise in Arrests
The ban comes after a notable increase in football-related arrests.
In the 2023-24 season, the Home Office reported a 14% rise in such arrests, driven in part by the possession of class A drugs and a surge in incidents tied to overseas tournaments.
The number of football banning orders also saw an uptick, with over 2,100 in place in England and Wales, marking a 21% increase from the previous year.
Minister’s Statement on Public Safety
Policing Minister Dame Diane Johnson addressed the issue, emphasizing that the majority of fans attending the tournament are expected to do so without incident.
“Many Manchester City and Chelsea fans will want to travel to support their teams, and we want them to do so safely and enjoyably,” she said.
However, she made it clear that for the small minority who have used football as a cover for criminal activity, authorities would apply proven preventative measures.
This crackdown is part of the broader Safer Streets Mission, under the government’s Plan for Change, aimed at reducing hooliganism and ensuring that fans can attend matches without disruption.
What’s Next for City and Chelsea in the Club World Cup
While these strict measures are put in place to ensure safety, the focus will soon return to the competition itself.
Manchester City and Chelsea, both recent Champions League winners, are set to compete in the new, expanded 32-team tournament that promises to deliver intense football action from June to July.
The pressure on the clubs will be immense as they vie for the coveted title, but for now, the attention is on keeping the tournament safe and free from any disruptions caused by a small minority of fans.