Football’s purpose is to entertain and to unite, elements that must be at the forefront of every sporting activity. FIFA, UEFA, and the Albanian Football Federation have built strong policies over many years to prevent inappropriate behavior during football matches, aiming to create the most favorable conditions for everyone who wants to be close to the world’s most popular sport. Football and misconduct can never coexist.
FSHF TV brings a report on this sensitive issue, which requires awareness first and foremost from the sport’s stakeholders. Alban Tafaj, Director of the Research and Development Department at the FSHF, Ardian Haçi, General Secretary of SHRF Tirana, Armando Mandro, Director of the Security Department, and journalist Alban Xhihani discuss the incidents and events that have influenced this season, as well as the measures that should be taken in such cases.
The organization of international events in Albania, such as the Conference League final, the UEFA U17 European Championship finals, and numerous youth international tournaments, has given the country enough experience to stand alongside European nations in this regard.
Alongside the policies guided by UEFA, FIFA, and the Albanian Football Association, it is essential that clubs set the main example in order to avoid incidents that do not belong in football. One of the phenomena that has had an impact this season in the “Abissnet Superiore” has been players leaving the pitch in certain moments as a form of protest against refereeing decisions.
Clubs must work harder to avoid such episodes, as they are the first regulatory link in preventing unpleasant situations. Everything starts on the pitch, from a single incident that can influence what follows. Excessive reactions from players, provocations, arguments during substitutions, or on-field clashes can all trigger undesirable situations—moments that may seem minor but can have a major impact later on.
In recent years, changes have been made, with sanctions for those causing acts of violence becoming stricter. However, this is not enough, as these are events involving large groups of people, and what is required is individual awareness. People must understand that such incidents are not only punishable but have no connection to football.
Football is a form of entertainment that brings together different communities, and its core purpose must never be forgotten.
