Crystal Palace is seeking increased security measures for their upcoming match against Nottingham Forest due to potential fan unrest. The club is in talks with the Metropolitan Police and Nottingham Forest to ensure a safe environment for the Premier League game at Selhurst Park.

Background of the Tension

The tension between the two clubs stems from a dispute over multi-club ownership rules. Nottingham Forest has written to UEFA, expressing concerns that Crystal Palace’s ownership structure could be in breach of these rules. The issue revolves around American businessman John Textor, who owns a significant stake in both Crystal Palace and French club Lyon, which has provisionally qualified for the Europa League ¹.

Security Measures

To mitigate potential issues, Crystal Palace is working closely with law enforcement and security agencies. The club’s proactive approach aims to prevent fan violence and ensure a smooth match day experience. Key aspects of the security plan include ²:

– Increased Police Presence: Additional police officers will be deployed around the stadium to maintain order and respond quickly to any incidents.

– Stewarding: Trained stewards will be stationed throughout the venue to monitor and manage the crowd.

– Intelligence Sharing: The club is sharing intelligence with Nottingham Forest and the police to identify potential hotspots and trouble areas.

Potential Consequences

The dispute over multi-club ownership rules could have significant consequences for Crystal Palace, including potential exclusion from European competitions. If UEFA finds that Crystal Palace is in breach of these rules, the club may face severe penalties. Nottingham Forest’s owner, Evangelos Marinakis, has previously faced similar issues with his ownership of Olympiakos, and had to step aside from day-to-day running of the club to comply with UEFA regulations ¹.

Match Day Preparations

With the match approaching, Crystal Palace and Nottingham Forest are preparing for a potentially volatile encounter. Both clubs are working together to ensure fan safety and prevent any clashes. The increased security measures are designed to minimize disruptions and provide a safe environment for fans to enjoy the match.

By prioritizing fan safety and security, Crystal Palace aims to ensure a successful and enjoyable match day experience for all attendees. The club’s proactive approach demonstrates its commitment to maintaining a safe and respectful environment for fans, players, and staff.