Explained: Argentina to end 12-year ban on away fans in local football; here's why

Argentina's football federation has announced plans to gradually lift a 12-year ban on away fans in local leagues, which was originally implemented to curb stadium violence but proved ineffective.The first test of this new policy will occur during the Clausura tournament's second matchday when Lanús hosts Rosario Central."It's a day that marks a before and after in our league," Argentine Football Association president Claudio Tapia said. "It's the kind of football (with visitors) we all grew accustomed to since we were kids. We have to get back to that path. Clubs that are in a position to host visiting fans can do so."Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!

Why was the ban imposed in first place?

The ban was initiated in 2013 following two tragic incidents: a Lanús fan's death during a police intervention in a clash with Estudiantes supporters, and the deaths of two Boca Juniors fans in a faction-related shootout.The restriction began in Buenos Aires province before expanding nationwide. However, violence persisted with continued deaths among "barrabravas" groups.

Under the new protocol, 6,500 Rosario Central supporters will be permitted in the Lanús away section. The plan includes strict security measures and designated tickets for proper fan identification."The idea isn't to go back to what we had before because the visitors were kicked out for a reason," Buenos Aires security minister Javier Alonso said. "We have to eradicate the culture of violence. It's sad to see 10-year-olds singing about drugs or that someone needs to be killed.

It has to be a family celebration, with flags and drums."The initial implementation will be limited to Buenos Aires province, though other provinces have expressed interest in joining the initiative.

The plan has faced opposition from some quarters in Buenos Aires. Critics argue that allocating police resources to protect visiting fans could compromise general public security amid rising crime concerns.The away fan restriction only applied to professional league matches and other divisions in Argentina, while international tournaments like Copa Libertadores and Copa Sudamericana continued to allow visiting supporters."This is what football fans and society want. Many matches have been organised with two sets of fans, and that's why we decided to announce the start of the return of visiting fans," Tapia added.