Foto Ina Fassbender / Reuters
It is not only about the famous plastic horns, which became a symbol of the 2010 World Cup in South Africa and then divided the soccer world into supporters and opponents of their monotonous hum. The ban also includes pneumatic horns and any devices that can create excessive noise, writes Reuters. FIFA rules formulate it as a measure against “excessive sound effects” that can disturb spectators and match participants.
However, the restrictions are not limited to acoustics. The fan code of conduct separately prohibits laser pointers and similar lighting devices, which have repeatedly become a problem at international tournaments. The fans’ appearance is also under control: body art and tattoos are not considered clothing, and therefore cannot be used to circumvent the dress code. Public nudity in the stands is also prohibited.
Another unexpected clause concerns water bottles – reusable containers cannot be brought into stadiums. FIFA explains this by security considerations and the need to unify control at the entrance.
Standard but tough measures are envisaged for violation of the rules: denial of entry to the stadium or removal during the match. Thus, the responsibility for order is fully shifted to the fans before the game even starts.
The World Cup with 48 national teams will be held from June 11 to July 19. And while the sporting intrigue promises to be massive, the atmosphere in the stands seems to be noticeably more “filtered” – without the usual chaotic noise that for many years was considered part of the soccer spectacle.
