Rethinking Pyrotechnic Penalties: Erzgebirge Aue Board Member Advocates for Differentiation
Jörg Püschmann, a board member of Erzgebirge Aue, a German football club in the third division, has called for a differentiated approach to penalizing the use of pyrotechnics in football stadiums. In an interview with the "Freie Presse," Püschmann expressed concerns that the current penalty system has failed to deter the use of pyrotechnics and has instead become a "money-making machine."
"The current penalty catalog has been in effect for several years and was intended to have a deterrent effect," Püschmann said. "However, German football must acknowledge that it has not worked. The intended effect has not been achieved."
Püschmann pointed out that the threat of punishment has not prevented the use of pyrotechnics, indicating that the goal of the current system has been missed. He emphasized the need for alternative approaches to address the issue.
In late January, several clubs and fan groups in the Regionalliga Nordost released a statement calling for the abolition of collective punishments for the use of non-abusive pyrotechnics. The signatories, including club representatives from boards of directors, supervisory boards, and managing directors, advocate for a differentiated approach to assessing the use of pyrotechnics.
"Firing rockets into neighboring blocks or actively and intentionally interfering with the game must continue to be prohibited," said Püschmann, who criticized the current situation: "The extent of the punishments is becoming increasingly drastic, while the incidents are becoming less and less security-related. It seems that an ‘educational measure’ is being transformed into a money-making machine."
Püschmann highlighted that the new position paper has already generated discussion. He stressed the need to move beyond mere discussion and implement concrete reforms: "We need tangible new regulations and the recognition that the current approach to fines does not do justice to the issue."
According to Püschmann, there must be a differentiation between abusively used and non-abusively used pyrotechnics: "The solution is simple, can be implemented quickly, and is the cleanest path for all parties involved."
Püschmann believes that a differentiated approach would lead to fairer punishments and could potentially reduce the use of pyrotechnics in a more sustainable way. He urged football authorities to consider the proposed changes and engage in a constructive dialogue with clubs, fans, and other stakeholders.
Differentiation Proposal
The proposal for a differentiated approach to pyrotechnic penalties involves categorizing the use of pyrotechnics into three levels:
- Level 1: Non-abusive use of pyrotechnics, such as smoke bombs and flares, used for atmospheric purposes and without any safety risks.
- Level 2: Abusive use of pyrotechnics, such as throwing pyrotechnics onto the pitch or into the stands, or using them to intimidate or provoke others.
- Level 3: Intentional and dangerous use of pyrotechnics, such as using them to attack people or property.
Penalties would be differentiated based on the level of abuse, with lighter punishments for non-abusive use and more severe punishments for dangerous and abusive use. This approach aims to target the individuals responsible for the misuse of pyrotechnics while allowing for the controlled and safe use for atmospheric purposes.
Benefits of Differentiation
Püschmann argues that a differentiated approach to pyrotechnic penalties would have several benefits:
- Fairer punishments: By differentiating between non-abusive and abusive use, punishments can be tailored to the severity of the offense, ensuring that those responsible for dangerous and abusive use face appropriate consequences.
- Reduced use of pyrotechnics: A differentiated approach could potentially reduce the overall use of pyrotechnics in stadiums by targeting the individuals who engage in abusive or dangerous behavior.
- Improved fan experience: Allowing the controlled and safe use of pyrotechnics for atmospheric purposes could enhance the fan experience and create a more vibrant and engaging matchday atmosphere.
- Dialogue and cooperation: A differentiated approach could foster dialogue and cooperation between clubs, fan groups, and football authorities, leading to a more sustainable and collaborative approach to addressing the issue of pyrotechnics in stadiums.
Conclusion
Jörg Püschmann’s call for a differentiated approach to pyrotechnic penalties highlights the need for a more nuanced and effective approach to addressing the use of pyrotechnics in football stadiums. By differentiating between non-abusive and abusive use, punishments can be fairer, the overall use of pyrotechnics could be reduced, and the fan experience could be improved. Football authorities should carefully consider the proposed changes and engage in a constructive dialogue with all stakeholders to find a balanced and sustainable solution to this complex issue.
