This week, police forces in Liverpool are set to be strengthened in preparation for a series of major sporting events. Merseyside Police plans to deploy an undercover operation to prevent potential conflict between traveling football fans and attendees of the Randox Grand National Festival. On the same day as the Festival’s opening, Liverpool will host Atalanta in the Europa League quarter-final at Anfield.
Liverpool’s successful season has positioned them as strong contenders for the title, with Jurgen Klopp aiming for a treble by winning the Europa League. Merseyside Police have devised a plan to place undercover officers to manage the potential clashes between football and horse racing fans due to the Grand National occurring at the same time. The influx of horse racing fans to Aintree for the Grand National meeting, combined with Atalanta’s history of violent incidents, has led authorities to express concerns about potential clashes.
Merseyside Police has prepared special measures to manage the situation, collaborating with both Liverpool and Atalanta football clubs to ensure the safety of all attendees. Superintendent Karl Baldwin has reassured the public that a comprehensive and proportionate policing plan is in place, aiming to minimize disruption while maintaining safety for all. Uniformed and plain clothes officers, along with additional specialist resources, will be deployed at the ground and the surrounding areas, as well as the city center.