Press Release of the Albanian Football Federation

The Albanian Football Federation wishes to clarify to the public regarding the behavior and actions of the State Police during the “Abissnet Superiore” category match between Partizani and Tirana, played at the “Arena e Demave” stadium on Sunday.

The Federation followed all necessary procedures and standard protocols for organizing the match, officially notifying the State Police through written correspondence. In coordination with the hosting club, Partizani, the necessary security measures were taken, including the engagement of a private security company.

It is important to emphasize that the amended Sports Law No. 105/2020, in Article 51, clearly states that “the maintenance of order and public safety in sports facilities is an institutional duty of the State Police.”

Furthermore, a memorandum of cooperation was signed last year between the Albanian Football Federation and the Ministry of the Interior, which explicitly states that the State Police is responsible for ensuring public order and safety in stadiums and sports facilities.

According to this memorandum, the Ministry of the Interior, in cooperation with the Albanian Football Federation, develops and implements additional security measures to guarantee the safety of all participants, spectators, and stakeholders through the involvement of the State Police.

Regarding Sunday’s derby, the State Police arrived late at Partizani’s stadium, leaving room for clashes between fans outside the stadium, as there was no visible security plan in place—despite such plans always being published before derby matches. Furthermore, the police initially refused to escort the Tirana team to the stadium, leading to a 30-minute delay in the match.

Once police forces arrived at the stadium and took control of the situation, fulfilling their legal duties, no further incidents occurred between fans. Additionally, it was confirmed that Partizani’s stadium is suitable for hosting matches of this level, as long as the police carry out their legally assigned duties of maintaining order in sports venues.

The Federation deeply regrets the incidents and the injuries sustained by some fans and police officers. However, it strongly emphasizes that these incidents resulted from the failure of police officials to take responsibility.

This is not the first time the State Police has refused to fulfill its duties and cooperate with clubs and the Federation. On previous occasions, they have declined to take responsibility for match security based on unfounded reasons. Despite officially refusing their duty through written notices, police officers still showed up before matches and took control of order and security.

The Federation remains open to cooperation with all institutions to ensure the smooth organization of sporting events and competitions. However, if this situation continues in the future, the Federation will be forced to reconsider its stance and take extreme measures, including the indefinite suspension of national football competitions.

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