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World Rugby have launched an investigation after supporters experienced serious delays entering the stadiums in Marseille for the World Cup clash between England and Argentina, and in Bordeaux for Ireland-Romania match.
English supporters reported on social media it took them over an hour to get through security at the main gate at the Stade de Marseille with large queues building before the game. Similarly, Irish fans complained of large queues to enter the Stade de Bordeaux with many missing kick-off.
World Rugby have banned bottles larger than 500ml from being brought into the stadium during the World Cup, and the delays in Marseille and Bordeaux were reportedly caused in part by security staff confiscating water bottles.
In Bordeaux, Irish fans reported 40-minute queues for water inside the stadium with the temperature hitting more than 30 degrees.
World Rugby announced in a joint statement with the France World Cup organising committee they would investigate the issues fans experienced in Marseille.
“We are aware of delays experienced by fans entering Stade de Marseille for the Rugby World Cup 2023 Pool D match between England and Argentina this evening,” it read.
Argentine fans queuing to enter the Stade de MarseilleCredit: AP
“While fans were able to take their seats, fan experience is paramount, and we are working with all stakeholders to establish the facts and implement measures to prevent such delays for the remaining Rugby World Cup 2023 matches at the venue.”
Coming after crowd control issues at previous sporting events in France, the Rugby World Cup crowd issues at the World Cup will cause serious concern to French authorities a year away from the Olympics in Paris.
Last May, football fans experienced serious delays and security problems entering the Stade de France in Paris for the Champions League final between Liverpool and Real Madrid.
French interior minister Gerald Darmanin eventually apologised to affected Liverpool supporters, whom he had initially accused of causing the delays due to using fake tickets and intoxication.
“Could the Stade de France have been better managed? The answer is yes… It is certain we have changes to make to the organisation,” Darmanin said.
On Saturday Darmanin posted on social media he was pleased with the work of security at the opening match of the World Cup between France and New Zealand.
“Security is not making noise, but yesterday, thanks to the mobilisation of the police, hundreds of thousands of supporters were able to celebrate sport in complete safety,” Darmanin posted on X.
There were no major reports of crowd issues for Wallabies supporters who attended the opening match against Georgia at the Stade de France, although Smart Traveller advises fans to leave plenty of time to arrive at World Cup games to avoid delays.
Watch all the action from Rugby World Cup 2023 on the Home of Rugby, Stan Sport. Every match ad-free, live and on demand in 4K UHD from September 9.
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