AIK fans protest 'crazy' Swedish government football ban

The large group of fans of Swedish club AIK descended on a local shopping mall with flags, banners and even drums. Taking over two balconies within the centre, they created a footballing atmosphere, one that has been missed for around a year in most countries.

AIK fans take over shopping mall

This wasn’t just a feel-good moment, though, it was a clear message to the government for their current stance on people gathering together amid the covid-19 pandemic. As it stands, there are no limits to the number of people that can be within the large indoor malls, but supporters are effectively banned from outdoor stadiums.

In fact, to highlight the point, a recent competition was held to award just eight (8) fans a seat to watch the latest home game against IF Elfsborg (which they won 1-0) in their 50,000 seater arena.

Mats Enqvist, General Secretary of Swedish Elite Football, was as confused as the rest of the supporters with the current rules.

“We have a feeling that we are not being seen as the large operation we actually are," he argued.

“It feels easier for the health authorities to find solutions for shopping centres and bars than for us. I don’t know why really."

Will this latest fan protest have as much effect as others that have been seen recently?