Raja Club Athletic Issues Clarifying Statement on Olympique Safi Match Incidents: "Usual Protocol Followed"
Raja Club Athletic issued a statement to clarify the circumstances surrounding the events witnessed at Mohammed V Stadium during their match against Olympic Safi, part of the 15th round of the Professional League.
The club affirmed that ticket sales were conducted in accordance with the stadium's capacity. A total of 20,555 tickets were sold, in addition to approximately 14,000 season tickets, bringing the total attendance to 34,555 spectators, which represents 77% of the stadium's 45,000-spectator capacity.
The statement indicated that the usual match organization protocol was followed, with coordination meetings held in the presence of the competent authorities and the company responsible for organizing matches, in accordance with established procedures.
It further explained that the match saw an exceptional influx of tens of thousands of individuals to the stadium's vicinity without valid tickets or season passes. Some attempted to bypass barriers and enter the stadium, leading to widespread chaos. A significant number of forged tickets and passes were also detected, preventing many genuine fans from accessing the stadium normally.
The club noted that these actions caused damage to the stadium's infrastructure, the club's image, and its financial resources.
The statement concluded by emphasizing the necessity for anyone wishing to attend future matches to possess a valid ticket or season pass. It also urged those without valid entry to avoid the stadium's perimeter to ensure spectator safety, protect the club's image, and maintain match organization.
Raja affirmed in its statement that it reserves the right to pursue legal action against anyone proven to be involved in possessing or using forged tickets and passes.
The club expressed its deep regret for these events, which were beyond its control, reiterating its commitment to organizing matches in a safe and orderly environment for all fans.
Raja confirmed that it has initiated contact with the competent authorities to assess the situation and review the organizational system outside the stadium to prevent the recurrence of such incidents.
