The Premier League and the English Clubs Association, along with other sports authorities, attended a government meeting to discuss the potential impact of the recent riots on sporting events in the country. The British news agency reported that official representatives were invited to the meeting, which also included officials from the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, following an increase in riots and violent disturbances nationwide.
The meeting focused on the need for community cohesion and de-escalation of rising tensions across the country. Attendees included figures from the England and Wales Cricket Board, the Rugby Football League, the Rugby Football Union, and the Sports England and UK Sport bodies.
The English Football League Championship season kicks off tomorrow, with matches scheduled in Blackburn, Preston, Barnsley, and Chesterfield. Meanwhile, Manchester United is set to face Manchester City at Wembley next Saturday in the FA Community Shield.
Reading, one of the Championship clubs, has issued an assurance to its fans attending the match this Saturday away against Birmingham. Reading stated in a statement: “We are aware of the concerns regarding the chaos in the country and how it may affect Saturday's game.” They added: “The safety and security of fans is a priority for both clubs. Birmingham City is in contact with West Midlands Police, and there is confidence that the match will proceed without issues, with a significant number of police deployed to prevent disturbances.”
