From Sturm and GAK

New concept for Liebenau: “Vandal-proof WCs”

Black and red have joined forces in Graz - at least when it comes to the stadium, Sturm and GAK are making common cause. The two arch-rivals have now presented the city with a security concept for urgently needed adaptations to the Merkur Arena.

On Tuesday, the two traditional Graz clubs Sturm and GAK presented the stadium management with a comprehensive catalog of measures to bring the dilapidated arena in Liebenau back up to the standard required by two professional clubs today. "The aim of the presentation was to clearly demonstrate that investments in the safety infrastructure of the Merkur Arena are essential, in a clear unity of the two clubs," explains Sturm's Managing Director of Business Thomas Tebbich.

Specific points include the future division of the fan sectors, the adaptation of the sector entrances, the possible installation of glass elements and additional security fences, a multifunctional use of the TV compound (crucial for UEFA guidelines) and, above all, vandal-proof toilet units (the ones in the away sector were recently vandalized by hooligans from Vienna Austria and Slovan Bratislava). 

Sturm managing director Thomas Tebbich.(Bild: GEPA pictures)

"If top soccer is to continue to be seen in Graz, we need a clear commitment from the city as owner and landlord to implement the adaptations we have presented," demands Tebbich. The initial reactions have been positive, but the implementation of the measures must continue in the same way.

The office of the responsible city councillor Manfred Eber (KPÖ) confirms that the concept has been received, but that it must first be examined before commenting on it. The fact is that some points need to be dealt with as quickly as possible. The first derby of the new season (assuming GAK clinches the title and the associated promotion) could take place in the Bundesliga as early as August.