The following incidents were confirmed and reported at the 3rd round of the 103rd Emperor's Cup JFA All Japan Soccer Championship held on July 12, 2023 (Wed). FC Tokyo has identified the perpetrators in all incidents and will proceed with strict measures as a club, as well as cooperating with the Japan Football Association (JFA) and the police.
□Confirmation of reported incidents
(1) The possession and use of explosives and other dangerous materials in the free seating area behind the goal of FC Tokyo
is in violation of Article 4 (Prohibited Acts) Section 2 of the operational management regulations established by the JFA, and is absolutely unacceptable behavior. We conducted verification through surveillance camera footage from the moment we became aware of the incident (before the match started). Additionally, we continuously monitored the area where dangerous materials were believed to have been used with FC Tokyo club staff and security until after the match, and conducted interviews with some spectators close to that area after the match, but we have not yet identified the perpetrator. We are still conducting investigations and will continue to work towards the prompt identification of the perpetrator and strict measures against them.
Furthermore, we recognize that this matter is a serious violation that undermines the trust of the JFA and J-League in ensuring safe and comfortable match viewing at the stadium. We take our responsibility as the club in charge of operations, security, and supporter management seriously, and we deeply apologize for causing such a situation. We will make every effort to prevent a recurrence in the future.
【Reference】
JFA Match Operation and Management Regulations
https://www.jfa.jp/documents/rules/
(2)Tobitakyu Station Front Signboard Vandalism
As of the pre-match stage, we have received reports and shared information regarding the vandalism of the corporate advertising signboard installed on private property in front of Tobitakyu Station. The owner of the signboard and the advertiser have already submitted a report to the police, and the police investigation is underway based on the analysis of surveillance camera footage from nearby stores and the station rotary.
In addition, unauthorized posters have been found on public facilities along Stadium Street and within the stadium grounds. Complaints have been received from local residents, and FC Tokyo club staff and security guards have conducted patrols and removed the posters. Although these incidents are not covered by the stadium's operational management regulations, the cooperation and understanding of the local residents near the stadium are essential for FC Tokyo to operate the matches, and we will cooperate if requested for investigation assistance.
At FC Tokyo, we will make even greater efforts to provide a safe and comfortable match viewing experience for stadium visitors, based on the rules and regulations for match operation and management. We will also further advance safe and secure match operation by engaging in additional discussions and collaborations with the residents of Chofu City and the surrounding stadium area, in order to integrate with the local community. We kindly ask for your understanding and cooperation.
