Major matches, mass participation races, and international tournaments share not only the thrill of competition but also the critical need for flawless safety measures. Sport safety and security in major sporting events is not just a legal requirement — it is the foundation for success. Neglecting it can result in sanctions, lawsuits, and even criminal liability.
The obligation to ensure safety in sporting events transcends borders and is governed by specific regulations in each country. In Spain, the Sports Law (Ley del Deporte) and regional regulations require organizers to guarantee access control, coordinate with law enforcement, and implement effective emergency plans.
Internationally, poor management of sport safety and security in major sporting events can be devastating. The Hillsborough tragedy in the UK (1989), where 96 people lost their lives due to crowd control failures and the lack of preventive measures, prompted a comprehensive reform in British legislation, leading to the Safety of Sports Grounds Act 1975 and the adoption of the Green Guide, now global benchmarks in sports safety.
In Germany, the German Football Association has fined and sanctioned clubs for violations of safety protocols, such as in the 2017 match between Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich, where failures in access management put attendees’ safety at risk.
In the United States, although there is no unified federal law, major leagues such as the NFL and NCAA impose strict safety standards. Non-compliance with these standards has, in some cases, led to event cancellations and the loss of broadcasting rights.
Australia regulates sport safety and security in major sporting events through the Sporting Events (Crowd Safety) Act, which requires organizers to submit comprehensive safety plans and carry insurance covering both participants and attendees. Non-compliance not only prevents event authorization but also exposes organizers to civil actions for negligence.
In Latin America, and specifically in Chile, recent developments have highlighted the importance of strengthening preventive measures. In April 2025, during a Copa Libertadores match at the Estadio Monumental, a crowd surge caused by the collapse of a metal barrier tragically resulted in two fatalities. This incident led to the suspension of the match and prompted a review of safety protocols. The Chilean government subsequently announced the termination of the “Estadio Seguro” program, proposing a more preventive and participatory approach focused on fan education, cooperation with supporter groups, and strict enforcement of emergency plans.
Despite legislative differences between countries, all these legal frameworks converge on a fundamental principle: the ultimate responsibility to protect the integrity of athletes, spectators, and staff lies with the event organizer. This obligation is the cornerstone upon which all other preventive measures are built.
A safety plan is not a mere formality — it is the blueprint guiding sport safety and security in major sporting events. It must be prepared by a qualified professional and include risk assessments (capacity, weather conditions, facility status), evacuation and medical assistance protocols, coordination with law enforcement and civil protection agencies, and clear staff assignments.
The British Green Guide is the global reference standard for drafting safety plans for sporting events. It outlines technical criteria and crowd management procedures that have been adopted by countries such as Australia and South Africa. For example, Australia’s Sporting Events (Crowd Safety) Act requires safety plans aligned with similar principles, including rigorous risk assessments and emergency protocols that must be approved to obtain authorization for large-scale events.
The effectiveness of sport safety and security in major sporting events directly depends on staff training. In the UK, programs such as the Stadium Safety Officer Training are mandatory for organizers and volunteers at regulated stadiums, ensuring that all personnel are prepared in first aid, crowd management, and evacuation procedures.
In Canada, the Canadian Sport Event Safety and Security initiative sets minimum training requirements for staff in large-scale sporting events, guaranteeing an adequate response to emergencies.
Effective communication with the public is another key factor. At the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, multilingual public address systems, digital signage, and mobile applications providing real-time information helped guide spectators during extreme weather events and other incidents, avoiding panic and facilitating orderly evacuations.
Obtaining the necessary licenses and permits is an essential requirement for any sporting event. Before the event takes place, the organizer must secure all relevant municipal, regional, or national authorizations, including approval of the safety and emergency plan. This ensures that competent authorities have reviewed and validated the protocols designed to protect attendees and participants.
Sports insurance is equally critical. Beyond complying with legal obligations, having policies that cover accidents, civil liability, and third-party damages protects both organizers and participants against potential claims. In many countries — such as Spain, under Royal Decree 849/1993 — this coverage is mandatory for all federated athletes, but it is advisable to extend it to volunteers, staff, and the general public, especially in large-scale or high-risk events.
In countries like Australia and the UK, the process for event authorization includes presenting comprehensive crowd management plans and proof of specific insurance coverage, reflecting the importance of early-stage risk planning and coverage.
Failure to meet these obligations can result in the suspension or cancellation of the event, as well as fines and potential civil or criminal liability if an incident occurs. Therefore, proper management of licenses, permits, and insurance is not just a bureaucratic formality — it is a key factor in avoiding legal and financial risks that could jeopardize the event’s viability.
Complying with legal obligations in sport safety and security in major sporting events is an investment that generates trust and stability. Organizers who integrate these standards into their events not only avoid sanctions but also strengthen their reputation with sponsors, authorities, and attendees, ensuring the continuity and long-term success of their projects.
For those looking to deepen their understanding and ensure safe and compliant event management, Sports Law Hub offers specialized training such as the Legal Aspects in the Organization of Sporting Events course — ensuring your event not only meets all regulations but also becomes an unforgettable experience.
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