As you are all aware the club recently communicated the away fans supporter information pack for the game in Istanbul against Fenerbahçe.
We all know that following our club abroad comes with its particular restrictions and that fans, and the club, have to abide by regulations set out by the local police and host football clubs. These rules can be deemed to be draconian and unwarranted at times, yet we have to respect the wishes of the host club, which ultimately are in place to aid the safety of travelling fans.
In addition to the information supplied by the club, the FAB would like to add the following comments for supporters considering travelling to the game.
Stadium conditions
The FAB has managed to obtain photos of what fans will be greeted with in Istanbul and are sharing them on this post. As you can appreciate, and may have read and seen via comments from previous clubs attending games in Turkey, the facilities at the stadium are significantly different to what we may usually expect. In the interests of keeping Villa fans as informed as possible, we hope the photos provide additional, useful information for those considering travelling.
Ticket allocation and communication
On the ticket allocation and lateness of the club providing details, we are aware that in this instance the delay is due to Fenerbahçe having work carried out on the stadium which could restrict our allocation, which was initially to be around the 2,100 mark. This issue has also been highlighted to the FSE (Football Supporters Europe)
Getting to and into the stadium
Supporters need to be aware that access to the stadium will only be possible from the supporter coach. Our understanding is that the coach will pull up to the turnstile, and you will exit the bus and step immediately into the turnstile. There will be no other way of entering the stadum. As such, the following information is crucial for anyone wishing to see the game.
- Buses will arrive at the meeting point at Sultanahmet Square from 14:00
- All supporters must arrive at the meeting point at Sultanahmet Square no later than 15:00
- All fans will be subject to ticket checks, body and bag searches by local police and security officers prior to boarding the buses.
- The buses will depart in a convoy escorted by police and local security officers no later than 16:00
- Buses will arrive at the stadium at approximately 17:00 (please note journey times may vary)
- Each bus will unload one-by-one, this will take a significant amount of time, please be patient
- There will be a hold back of 90 minutes to 2 hours post-match (concourse toilets and catering facilities will remain open throughout)
- All supporters will be required to board the buses to return to the meeting point at Sultanahmet Square post-match.
- Supporters should not leave any personal belongings on the buses.
Dedicated Supporter WhatsApp channel
Matt Dainty, SLO at Villa, has set up a WhatsApp channel for those travelling. This will be the best way to get updates from a trusted source whilst in Turkey
Follow the AVFC Fenerbahce Supporter Information channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb71uIe4SpkHCYcezj1j
Respectful treatment of AVFC staff
With all European away fixtures the Club sends staff to help and advise fans when in the host city, and in and around the stadium. Aston Villa staff have no jurisdiction when it comes to anything that has been imposed by the host club, especially when it comes to lock ins after the game. These are deemed to be the “norm” when travelling abroad.
That being said, I have previously witnessed some unsavoury treatment towards Villa staff from our own fans when we have finally been allowed to leave the stadium. On this and any future trips can we please ensure that the staff are treated with respect, and ensure that our fellow fans are fully aware that any lock-ins are not imposed on us by the Club’s security staff. For those considering travelling, please do share this post with others who are planning on making the trip.
Ongoing FAB work around European trips
The FAB are part of the FSA and FSE UEFA Working Consultation Group and would recommend that all fans complete this survey for all away games attended as this feedback is used to improve all supporters’ experiences while travelling abroad.
Have a safe trip, and Up the Villa!
Karl Bowater
Chair, Aston Villa Fan Advisory board.