On Saturday night, hundreds of fans were unable to attend England’s Rugby World Cup match against Argentina because of problems similar to those faced by Liverpool fans in France prior to the 2022 Champions League final.
A lengthy security check process and “too many people choosing the same entry gate” are thought to be to blame for the queues of England and Argentina fans outside the Stade Velodrome prior to kickoff. Large lines formed as a result, and many people missed the local kickoff at 9 o’clock.
In response to the disorderly circumstances, World Rugby released the following statement: “We are aware of the delays supporters experienced when entering [the stadium] for the England vs. Argentina game this evening. Although spectators were able to find seats, we are working with all stakeholders to determine the facts and put precautions in place to avoid delays like this for the other Rugby World Cup 2023 matches at the venue because the fan experience is so important.
As the site of the badly organized 2022 Champions League final, France has already had similar issues while hosting high-profile sporting events. Police pepper-sprayed Liverpool fans who arrived in time for the game and were accused of having false tickets.
Amelie Oudea-Castera, France’s sports minister, asserted that the country was “ready on all fronts” for the Rugby World Cup, which concludes on October 28. She emphasized that lessons had been learnt from the terrifying evening in May 2022.
Following the Rugby World Cup, France is now getting ready to host the Olympics and Paralympics in Paris in 2024.
