Police to implement heightened penalty zone around Parken before football showdown

Copenhagen Police are implementing a temporary, heightened penalty zone around Parken in connection with the upcoming football match between F.C. København and Malmö FF on August 12.

The reason is that in previous matches between the two teams, there have been incidents of both violence and vandalism, which they aim to prevent with the sharpened penalty zone.

Additionally, Parken has been instructed that the away team’s fans must be retained at the stadium for up to an hour after the match.

“Last time these two teams met, we witnessed violent clashes between fan groups, but unfortunately, we also saw that both fan groups sought violent confrontations with the police. This is not acceptable, and we hope and believe that a tightened penalty zone in the area – along with our visible presence – will help prevent disturbances,” says Chief Police Inspector Peter Dahl of Copenhagen Police.

The heightened penalty zone is effective from August 12, 2025, at 11:00 AM to August 13 at 01:00 AM. This means that penalties can double for certain types of crimes committed in the zone – including violence, vandalism, and severe disruption of public order.

The area is delineated by Trianglen – Blegdamsvej – Frederik V’s Vej – Edel Sauntes Allé – Nørre Allé – Lyngbyvej – Australiensvej – Sankt Kjelds Gade – Jagtvej – Østerbrogade.

The majority of spectators will be allowed to leave the stadium immediately after the final whistle and can move away from the stadium. As soon as Copenhagen Police assess that it is safe to do so, the detained spectators will be permitted to leave Parken.

Malmö FF’s spectators, located in the D-stand, will be held back for a period of up to 60 minutes after the match.

“We see the retention of away fans as an important tool to prevent unrest and hopefully contribute to ensuring that everyone attending football matches has a good and safe experience,” says Peter Dahl.