Away fans banned from Napoli–Frankfurt and Marseille–Ajax ties.
Next week’s Champions League fixtures will see two matches without away supporters after local authorities banned travelling fans.
Napoli’s clash with Eintracht Frankfurt and Marseille’s tie against Ajax will go ahead without visiting supporters due to security concerns.
Police in Naples cited “high risks to public order” while Marseille officials told Ajax that fans could not enter the city or stadium “for safety reasons.”
Liverpool fans travelling to Istanbul for their game against Galatasaray will face harsh restrictions.
Authorities have ordered that all away fans must use a limited fleet of buses, with no toilets or accessibility on board. Items such as phone power banks, medical supplies, and women’s hygiene products will also be confiscated before entry.
The supporters’ union Spirit of Shankly (SOS) described the measures as “indefensible”, calling them degrading and unsafe.
“This is not about safety, it’s about control and convenience at the expense of dignity,” SOS said.
Football Supporters Europe director Ronan Evain condemned the bans, saying police authorities in France and Italy are “giving up” instead of finding solutions.
“Opening an away end and giving 5% of tickets is part of UEFA rules,” he argued. “When authorities block fans, they are refusing to respect the regulations.”
Fan groups believe UEFA has failed to act despite promising reforms after the chaotic 2022 Champions League final in Paris, where an independent report blamed UEFA’s mismanagement.
Turkey, which is set to co-host Euro 2032 with Italy, has also come under fire.
Fans’ groups say Turkish authorities create a “hostile environment” for visitors, citing previous overcrowding and poor safety conditions at Galatasaray’s stadium.
UEFA has yet to comment on the situation, despite repeated requests.
Supporters warn that repeated travel bans and heavy restrictions risk destroying the spirit of European football.
“UEFA can’t keep washing their hands,” said SOS. “They signed up to ensure fans’ journeys are safe and welcoming. Right now, that commitment means nothing.”
