A proposal by the Belgian Pro League to allow pyrotechnics to be used in football grounds has been submitted and is due to be discussed by Government officials.
According to Nieuwsblad, the proposal being put forward is, “The pyro devices would not be allowed to be used during matches and would only be allowed in certain areas without an audience.
“Only adult supporters would be allowed to set off the fireworks with the agreement of the police and fire brigade and those fans would have to undergo training with the fire brigade.”
And it seems the proposal has the backing of the Ultras according to Pro League spokesman Stijn Van Bever, “We talked to a delegation of the ultras and that was exactly how they saw it: in a corner of the stadium where there is no people, it should be possible.”
Just quite how both would be implemented is yet unknown. But no doubt this is a progressive step in allowing the legal use of the devices.
This is a subject that has continually caused controversy in Scottish football, especially amongst the Celtic fans.
Using pyro at football matches undoubtedly adds colour and atmosphere to football grounds. We have witnessed on many occasions how the Green Brigade have turned important Celtic games in the Champions League and cup finals into an incredible and intimidating atmosphere with them.
But they also do raise safety and health concerns as the potential to be burned by the devices is often highlighted as well as the resulting smoke possibly causing issues with fans with breathing difficulties.
Currently, pyro remains banned for use inside football stadiums in Scotland, but should this proposal get the go-ahead, it could open up avenues for debate between fans and footballing authorities to change their stance on this controversial issue.
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