Atlanta United responds to Orlando City Stadium ban

Orlando City SC announced today that the club is suspending Atlanta United’s organized supporters group privileges for the next three matches the teams will play in Orlando City Stadium. On its website, Orlando City says the reason for the sanctions is “a result of unaddressed misconduct” as it relates to five Atlanta United supporters reported by Orlando City SC.

On May 15, Orlando City SC shared video footage and images with Atlanta United FC of five of its fans throwing objects during the match. Atlanta United failed to respond with the names of the offenders or ask for an extension within the appropriate window of time.

Orlando City SC will revoke the typical privileges granted to organized supporters groups in Major League soccer, which include block ticket purchasing in designated areas, escorts to matches, entering stadiums early and bringing flags and banners.

Atlanta United has issued the following statement, disagreeing with Orlando’s findings and course of action:

We disagree with the unsubstantiated and premature position that the Orlando City SC organization has taken regarding our visiting fans and have asked for an extension to further investigate alleged supporter involvement. We feel this action is inconsistent with League policy and practice and as such we will be calling for League review.

We continue to assist Orlando City SC with their follow-up on incidents of Atlanta United fan misconduct and believe in accountability for these behaviors, as well as for the misconduct displayed by OCSC fans at the conclusion of the May 13 match.