Sport Industry Group

UEFA BANS VUVUZELAS FROM EUROPEAN MATCHES- 2 Sep 2010 00:00:00

The instrument that dominated crowds at the World Cup in South Africa – the vuvuzela - has been banned from all UEFA-sanctioned games such as Euro 2012 qualifiers and the Champions League.



The horns were largely popular at the World Cup this summer, but the instrument drew some critics who said that they drowned out fan singing and atmosphere.

A UEFA statement said that the move was taken: ‘for reasons related to Europe's football culture and tradition.’

‘UEFA is of the view that the vuvuzelas would completely change the atmosphere, drowning supporter emotions and detracting from the experience of the game.’

The horns are a part of tradition for football crowds in South Africa but UEFA felt the ‘instrument's use would not be appropriate in Europe where a continuous loud background noise would be emphasised.

However the football governing body added that: ‘in the specific context of South Africa, the vuvuzela adds a touch of local flavour and folklore,’

The horns have been banned from several Premier League football teams in England.

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