The fans deserve better conditions for the cup final

On Thursday, April 3rd, the Divisionsforeningen (Danish League Association) announced their plan for the organization of the 2025 cup final. We recognize the need for safety considerations at major matches, but we are disappointed and puzzled that fan organizations have not been part of the process leading to the chosen solutions.

After the most recent derby at Brøndby Stadium, we expressed concerns about the safety of our traveling fans due to repeated security failures in and around the away section.

Furthermore, the decision that F.C. Copenhagen cannot play the final at Brøndby Stadium unless Brøndby IF is the opponent highlights the well-known safety challenges associated with matches held in Brøndby. This raises the question of whether it was even justifiable to award Brøndby Stadium the hosting rights for the cup final.

It is therefore noteworthy that the Divisionsforeningen, instead of addressing the underlying challenges, has chosen a model that entails significant restrictions for fans. The sharp reduction in capacity, the possible requirement of MitID (national digital ID), and the risk of mandatory bus transport raise questions about whether these measures actually improve safety or merely limit access for the many peaceful spectators who simply want to take part in the football celebration.

We want to emphasize that the vast majority of Danish football fans are peaceful, want a festive atmosphere at matches, reject violence, and support initiatives that can help reduce the issues we unfortunately still experience.

In particular, the possible requirement of MitID seems unnecessary, as F.C. Copenhagen already has a well-established away card system that ensures full oversight of fans in the away section. Likewise, the consideration of mandatory bus transport creates logistical challenges that could make it difficult to conduct a fair and accessible final.

Finally, we find it problematic that the final’s location can be changed after the semifinals, which could lead to a significantly reduced spectator capacity of just 12,000 seats. Such a decision risks devaluing the cup tournament and diminishing the experience for the many fans who simply want to support their team under fair and reasonable conditions and take part in the huge football celebration that a cup final has always been and should continue to be.

We now await the outcome of the semifinals and have no further comments at this time.