Norwegian Football Federation allows match with empty stands amid supporter protests

The Norwegian Football Federation (NFF) has determined that, in light of “special circumstances,” teams will be allowed to play an upcoming match, but it must take place with empty stands. The NFF’s assessment cites unprecedented coordinated actions targeting the playing field by various supporter groups, creating an extraordinary situation for clubs.

The NFF notes that the pressure on clubs is significant as their supporters have previously disrupted matches by throwing objects onto the pitch. Clubs now face the task of identifying and penalizing their own supporters for such actions while risking fines and additional sanctions from NFF’s independent disciplinary bodies.

While there was a possibility of both clubs being awarded no points, this will not happen; instead, the match will be replayed. The NFF believes that declaring the match a 0–0 draw with no points would unnecessarily escalate tensions in an already sensitive environment for Norwegian top clubs.

Sport commentator Jan Petter Saltvedt suggests that NFF’s approach aims to address protest activities but doubts it will deter supporters who oppose video refereeing (VAR). He expresses concern that without more constructive dialogue, the future landscape of supporter engagement in Norwegian football may look bleak.

Supporters’ groups have reacted positively to the decision to replay the match instead of a points deduction, with calls for unity among fans against VAR protests. The NFF also confirms that video refereeing will be a topic of discussion at the football conference next March, underscoring their commitment to engaging with supporters and enhancing communication about democratic processes regarding VAR’s future in Norwegian football.