Ahead of the 2022 Champions League final in Paris between Liverpool and Real Madrid, many Reds fans were left exposed to dangerous scenes as gross organisation failure from UEFA led to thousands of supporters suffering injuries as a result of over-crowding outside the ground.
Finally, almost two years on, it appears as though the governing body have reached an agreement on compensation for those fans in question.
UEFA finally agree on compensation for Liverpool fans
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What happened in Paris?
A massive organisational failure from both UEFA and French authorities resulted in chaotic scenes outside the Parc des Princes and many Liverpool fans were left injured as a result. Despite UEFA initially refuting all claims suggesting they were to blame, an independent review carried out soon after the incident disagreed.
That review disregarded claims from the governing body that a huge number of Liverpool fans travelled to the ground without tickets, instead placing the majority of the blame at the hands of UEFA.
Since that moment, fans in attendance that day have been lobbying against the organisation, tirelessly working to ensure that all supporters who were affected are compensated accordingly. At long last, that finally appears to be the case.
Compensation agreed upon
Although the exact details of the agreement are to remain confidential, both UEFA and Liverpool supporters groups have confirmed that an agreement has now been reached.
A statement from the governing body read: “UEFA has today concluded a full and final settlement with those Liverpool fans represented by Pogust Goodhead and Bingham Long and who have raised personal injury claims in respect of their experiences at the 2022 UEFA Champions League Final that took place in Paris.”
Before the organisation also took the opportunity to reiterate that the agreement is in no way an admission of guilt, explaining that: “The parties have agreed the terms of this statement but that the terms of the settlement will otherwise remain confidential. The settlement agreement has been made without any admission of liability. UEFA is pleased to have reached a common position which it is hoped provides closure for the fans. UEFA will be making no further comment.”
Long overdue
In truth, while the agreement is of course good news, there is no denying the fact that it should have been reached a long time ago. From an outsider's perspective, it was evident beyond any doubt that Liverpool fans were deserving of compensation for the trauma suffered in Paris, and the fact it took UEFA almost two years to provide it is hugely frustrating.
However, hopefully, now all those who were affected can finally close that chapter of their lives knowing they finally got the justice they deserve.