The Public Security Police said Friday that Benfica is fully responsible for opening a fan zone outside Estádio da Luz for Sunday's match. The police force stated that its role is limited to maintaining public order and security for the I Liga football game.
In a statement, the Lisbon Metropolitan Command of the Public Security Police said it will police the opening round match between Benfica and Académico de Viseu. The police will ensure compliance with a sanction requiring the game to be played behind closed doors. The force emphasized that the event outside the stadium is organized by and is the full responsibility of the promoter.
The police stated that their duties focus on maintaining public order and safety for the match and sports personnel. To achieve this, the 3rd Police Division has been coordinating with Benfica's security management to guarantee legal compliance and the smooth running of the event. Police also called on fans and participants to act with civility.
Fan Zone Setup Outside Stadium
The police statement follows Benfica's announcement on Tuesday that it will open a fan zone outside Estádio da Luz. The club plans to set up giant screens and open food services so fans can follow the team's 2026/27 I Liga debut despite the ban on stadium stands.
Benfica stated that the outdoor operation was prepared in coordination with security forces to ensure proper conditions for supporters. Fans will be able to watch the team arrive at the stadium near the statue of Eusébio.
Stadium Sanction and Legal Basis
The Authority for the Prevention and Combating of Violence in Sport, when questioned Wednesday by news agency Lusa, said it did not see how the gathering outside could bypass the court ruling. The authority clarified that holding the match behind closed doors is fulfilled regardless of any crowds assembling nearby.
The sports violence authority explained that the sanction dates back to a 2024 ruling that became final after being confirmed by the Lisbon Court of Appeal. The penalty includes an overall fine of around 150,000 euros and a stadium ban.
According to the authority, the conviction resulted from Benfica failing to comply with legal security duties across five matches, including failing to adopt required measures and not obeying security force requests, rather than directly from fan pyrotechnics. The match between Benfica and Académico de Viseu is scheduled for Sunday at 20:30 at Estádio da Luz.
