The English Premier League and the English Football Association announced tough new penalties to confront the invasion of stadiums and the use of smoke bombs and fireworks.
The end of last season witnessed an increasing number of stadium invasions, as fans celebrated titles, climbed to higher levels or survived relegation.
As of the start of the new season, Premier League and FA officials said: “All offenders identified by clubs will be reported to the police, and this might lead to a permanent criminal record being opened for them. This may affect their employment and education, and may lead to prison sentences.”
Furthermore, anyone who breaks into the playing field as well as those involved in the use of fireworks or smoke bombs will be automatically banned from entering the stadiums and this ban may be extended to accompanying parents or guardians of children who are involved in these activities.
The leagues said they were working closely with the police and judiciary to ensure that “automatic” prosecutions are held following any infraction.
