Abstract
The article maps four tragic incidents which occurred in the 1980s at European football stadiums (Lužniki, Moscow, 1981; Valley Parade, Bradford, 1985; Hesley Stadium, Brussel, 1985 and Hillsborough, Sheffield, 1989). Information about the causes of the disasters, as well as witness and investigator statements, was collected from archive documents, expert literature and current resources.
The second part describes consequences which resulted in new safety regulations, rebuilding the stadiums and in new instructions for organizers and security service. Attention is paid to the Taylor Report (1989) which, except for the investigation into the Hillsborough disaster, introduced recommendations regarding the provision of safety during sporting events in the Great Britain.
Gradually, it became a model that other European countries followed. The provision of safety during football matches in Czechoslovak and later in the Czech football league is also enquired into. "Ligové stadiony" (League Stadiums) is the most important project which tries to set criteria for establishing unified safety rules at the Czech football stadiums.
The project and related legislative documents were modified according to new knowledge and experience. The Chief Safety Manager of the Czech Football Association assesses current safety rules as sufficient.
However, several Czech football clubs were not able to accept them and had to give up their participation in the top competition or had to play their matches at other stadiums.