FIFA President Gianni Infantino called the incident at Indonesia’s Kanjuruhan Stadium “a dark day for football.”
The stampede that killed 174 people occurred after police fired tear gas into the air to disperse angry fans who invaded the pitch after Persebaya Surabaya defeated Arema FC in East Java on Saturday.
East Java Police Chief Nico Afinta confirmed that over 300 people were injured and taken to nearby hospitals, but some died on the way.
Infantino said, “The football world is in a state of shock following the tragic incidents that have taken place in Indonesia at the end of the match between Arema FC and Persebaya Surabaya at the Kanjuruhan Stadium.
“This is a dark day for all involved in football and a tragedy beyond comprehension. I extend my deepest condolences to the families and friends of the victims who lost their lives following this tragic incident.”
FIFA, the international football governing body, bans tear gas at football stadiums.
“Together with FIFA and the global football community, all our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, those who have been injured, together with the people of the Republic of Indonesia, the Asian Football Confederation, the Indonesian Football Association, and the Indonesian Football League, at this difficult time.” Infantino added.
Liga 1 has since been temporarily suspended by Indonesian President Joko Widodo to allow for further investigations and improvements to safety policies.
