Authorities in Argentina ban iconic ticker tape welcome at football stadiums

The arrival of Argentina's football teams onto the pitch before each match can no longer be celebrated by throwing coloured paper in stadiums across the capital, city security authorities ruled on Wednesday, banning the iconic and long-standing tradition among supporters.

The decision follows a small fire that broke out on Sunday shortly before kick-off ahead of the Superclásico between River Plate and Boca Juniors at the Monumental stadium.

On that occasion, an endless shower of red and white paper – River’s colours – greeted the home side as they entered the pitch, in a memorable display before around 85,000 spectators.

Ahead of the match, which Boca won 1-0, a seat caught fire in one of the stands. Although it was quickly extinguished, the incident raised concerns among the city’s security authorities.

The ticker tape display had been organised by River’s supporters and involved around 50 tonnes of shredded paper, according to local media reports.

“No authorisations will be granted, going forward, for celebratory activities involving the use of these materials,” the Football Security Committee said in a statement, referring to the paper.

The measure, described as “preventive and of immediate application”, was approved unanimously “following a comprehensive assessment of the risks associated with the use of shredded paper as a celebratory element,” the committee added.

– TIMES/AFP