Slavia Prague fan riots after Sparta derby spark criticism

A violent incident erupted at the Czech league derby between Slavia Prague and Sparta Prague, which Slavia won 3-2. After the match, Slavia supporters stormed the pitch, threw flares, damaged property and assaulted Sparta players. The league and both clubs imposed sanctions, including fines, a stadium closure and disciplinary actions.

Sparta owner Daniel Křetínský blamed two members of Slavia’s staff for the unrest, saying, “For me the reason the fans stormed the pitch and threw flares are Houštěcký and Řehák.” He added that Slavia’s “culture of aggression” fuels such incidents, while noting that Sparta lacks similar aggressiveness on the field. Both clubs issued statements condemning the atmosphere of hatred surrounding the match.