(Football news) Lawyers have claimed that more than 1700 Liverpool fans are expected to sue European football governing body UEFA, claiming they were left injured or endured psychological trauma in the events leading up to the Champions League final. The final was held in Paris and was delayed by 35 minutes due to “security issues” which resulted in many Liverpool fans missing out on significant periods of the match after being denied entry into the stadium. 

Liverpool law firm Bingham has partnered with global law company Pogust Goodhead for a lawsuit involving 1,450 clients alleging negligence on UEFA’s part over duty of care towards supporters who were harmed both physically and psychologically. The French police was allegedly heavy handed in dealing with many supporters, with tear gas being used in order to manage the crowd who wanted entry for the match. 

Gerard Long from Binghams said: "As a life-long Liverpool fan, I was absolutely horrified when I heard how events unfolded at what should have been the highlight of the football season. Not only fellow fans, but my friends, family and clients who were in attendance that day have spoken of the terrifying scenes that surrounded the Stade de France before, and even after, the game." 

Another law firm Leigh Day will also take action against UEFA for “failing to provide a safe and secure environment" for fans. Consumer and travel law experts Clare Campbell and Jill Paterson, who are leading Leigh Day's action, said: "It was truly shocking to see how Liverpool fans and others who had travelled to watch the Champions League final were treated both at the match and in the aftermath. The accounts of their experiences paint a picture of a terrifying situation where people really feared for their lives." 

Leigh Day is currently representing approximately 400 clients and have gathered 8,500 testimonies from supporters about their experiences. Club chief executive Billy Hogan said they "suffered harrowing experiences". While UEFA has apologised to both Liverpool and Real Madrid supporters for the incidents at the Champions League final, the governing body is yet to comment on the lawsuits as things stand.

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