The Government has adopted, at first reading, the reform of the football law, aimed at strengthening security in and around stadiums.
“Troublemakers who ruin matches and the image of our football have no place in the stadium. We are strengthening penalties and enforcement resources so that every supporter and every family can enjoy matches in a positive and sporting atmosphere!”, stresses Bernard Quintin.
The reform will toughen all the penalties provided for by the law.
The minimum fine amount will be doubled, from 250 to 500 euros.
Acts of racism and xenophobia will be punished more severely: the minimum fine will rise from 1,500 to 2,000 euros and the stadium ban from 30 months to 3 years.
Physical violence (assault) will be punishable by a minimum fine of 2,500 euros, compared to 2,000 euros currently.
The law now explicitly includes the term "discrimination" to condemn all forms of hateful behaviour in and around stadiums, including antisemitism.
In addition, a judge may also impose an obligation to report to a police station during matches for those subject to a stadium ban.
Checks will also be stepped up in and around stadiums to better identify troublemakers, in particular through wider use of cameras.
In total, 1,357 people in Belgium are subject to a stadium ban. For the 2024-2025 season, 1,219 reports were drawn up for offences under the football law. The total amount of fines came to 759,250 euros.