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Last week, during the meeting of the UEFA Extraordinary Committee in Monaco, a decision was made that the “vuvuzelas” beloved by fans at the World Cup cannot be used during UEFA-run tournaments and championships. In the decision led by UEFA President Michel Platini on August 27, it is stated that at the 2010 FIFA World Cup, the highly popular and frequently used blowing instruments “vuvuzelas” in the specific context of South Africa were understandable and gave the championship an additional charm, local color. However, in the European context, such additional disruptions caused by very high volume and uninterrupted noise are unacceptable. According to committee members in Europe, different traditions have developed, where one of the greatest values is considered the direct exchange of emotions (songs, chants, cheers, etc.) between spectators in the stands and footballers on the field. The sound of vuvuzelas would disturb the established emotional field and would not allow fans to enjoy their usual experience. In order to protect European football traditions, the UEFA committee made the decision that “vuvuzelas” are prohibited in all stadiums hosting UEFA-organized competitions. With this decision, the Lithuanian Football Federation is obligated to ensure that vuvuzelas are not used during UEFA competitions held in the country. The first UEFA Championship match after the implementation of this decision will take place this Friday, September 3rd in Kaunas, where the national teams of Lithuania and Scotland will meet.
