Bayern Munich fined by UEFA over fan pitch invasion

Bayern Munich have been fined by UEFA after photographers were injured when fans breached barriers during their Champions League quarter-final win over Real Madrid.

Earlier in April, Bayern scored twice late in the second leg at the Allianz Arena to secure a place in the semi-finals. However, celebrations turned chaotic as a group of fans from the ultras section climbed over barriers and ran towards the pitch, trampling photographers positioned along the sidelines.

One photographer reportedly suffered a concussion, while another sustained a head laceration, with several others requiring medical attention.

UEFA imposed a total fine of €89,625 ($104,700) on Bayern. The sanction included €40,000 for crowd disturbances, €30,000 for a fan banner critical of UEFA, €14,000 for blocking aisles, and €5,625 for throwing objects.

Despite concerns over a possible fan restriction for the semi-final clash against Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern had expressed confidence that the Allianz Arena would still host a full-capacity crowd.

Sporting director Christoph Freund said before UEFA’s ruling: “We expect to be able to celebrate a football festival with a full stadium against Paris.”