Iñigo Cabacas Herri Harmaila say Athletic bus welcome blocked for Sporting clash after high-risk ruling | OneFootball

Supporters’ group Iñigo Cabacas Herri Harmaila say they have been refused permission to stage a bus welcome for Athletic before Wednesday’s Champions League tie with Sporting de Portugal at San Mamés, scheduled for 21:00. The planned reception was to take place at their usual spot by Fremap on Sabino Arana.

According to El Correo, the authorities blocked the plan because the fixture has been designated high risk.

The group argue the call is inconsistent, noting UEFA have barred ticket sales to Lisbon supporters after pyrotechnics in December’s game against Bayern Múnich. They add that, in principle, visiting fans cannot access the security perimeter around the stadium.

With progression on the line, Athletic could reach the Champions League last 24. Iñigo Cabacas Herri Harmaila had hoped to build a charged pre-match atmosphere, mirroring previous Copa del Rey welcomes before ties with Barcelona, Atlético and Real Madrid.

The aim, despite a poor run, was to show the players firm backing. That designation requires extra ticketing checks, segregation and reinforced policing.

Even though Sporting supporters cannot enter San Mamés and risk ejection if they do, the authorities have opted to tighten precautions, which prevents the team bus reception.

Source: El Correo