Leading up to the start of the season, much of the discussion revolved around disturbances and new security directives. Now, with seven and six rounds respectively played in the Allsvenskan and Superettan, it is joyfully noted that the focus is on the fantastic atmosphere of the events and, most importantly – the football itself.
The season has started excellently. 120 out of 480 matches have been played, and the audience continues to flock to the arenas. It is clear that good spirits and exciting football are in focus.
“We cannot ignore the escalation in disturbances from last year, but at the same time, we feel that this winter there has been far too much focus on arena violence and security issues. It is very clear now that the season is underway. Even though there are still things to work on, we can conclude this spring that all stakeholders in and around Swedish elite football have taken responsibility for creating a positive environment around our leagues. The clubs and organizers are doing a great job following our new directives, as are the referees,” says Johan Lindvall, Secretary-General of Swedish Professional Football Leagues.
“On the terraces, the supporters are doing their part to show the positive and beautiful aspects of terrace culture with fantastic displays and lively chants. The supporters have actively worked to stay away from crossing the lines. This responsibility is something we depend on and appreciate. It’s a big step in the right direction and something that will improve the conversation climate for all of us. Thanks to everyone who has contributed to the positive change. Let’s continue on the path we’ve taken,” Johan Lindvall continues.
Ahead of this year’s season, Swedish Professional Football Leagues and the 32 clubs in the Allsvenskan and Superettan have worked intensively to create safe, secure, and welcoming arrangements. Last winter, previous security guidelines were turned into directives, and this initiated an effort to strengthen dialogue with all stakeholders and intensify work on cultural issues in elite football. In parallel, Sweden’s ultras groups issued a joint statement emphasizing responsibility. This, along with many other actions, has resulted in a so far changed behavior in the stands and meant that Swedish elite football, up to this point in 2024, experiences a significantly improved order situation compared to 2023.
“There are always things to improve and work on, but we’ve come a long way. We believe in dialogue and finding a balance in measures that are endorsed by all stakeholders. We feel we have good dialogue and cooperation with our clubs, the police, the federation, and especially the supporters. The matches and arena experience have been characterized by incredible displays and a fantastic atmosphere. It’s something we gladly highlight, and hopefully, we can continue to let the debate and conversations around our leagues revolve around the positive aspects rather than the negative ones,” concludes Johan Lindvall.
So far this season, matches in the Allsvenskan and Superettan have been attended by 730,697 people. The Stockholm derby between AIK and Djurgården at Friends Arena attracted a whopping 44,734 visitors, and the average attendance for the Allsvenskan after seven rounds is 11,115 visitors per match, which is an increase of over a thousand visitors per match compared to the same time last season. The Superettan average is 2,255 visitors per match, slightly below last season’s average.
