Simba SC to play CS Constantine without fans, fined Sh100 million
What you need to know:
- The penalty stems from crowd trouble during their match against CS Sfaxien on December 15, 2024, at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam.
Dar es Salaam. Simba Sports Club has suspended ticket sales for their upcoming Group match against CS Constantine following a decision by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), which has ordered the match to be played behind closed doors.
The penalty stems from crowd trouble during their match against CS Sfaxien on December 15, 2024, at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam.
In a public notice issued on January 14, 2025, Simba SC confirmed that CAF had originally imposed a two-match ban on the team.
However, this sanction was later reduced to a one-match ban, which will see Simba SC play their next match without fans in attendance. In addition to the fan ban, the club has been fined $40,000 (approximately Sh100 million).
Simba SC assured the public that it is taking the necessary steps to address the decision. As a result of the ruling, the club has suspended ticket sales for the upcoming fixture against CS Constantine.
However, fans who have already purchased tickets have been informed that these tickets will remain valid for the next quarter-final match.
The club also reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety of its fans and players by adhering to all procedures, regulations, and laws related to security at sporting events. Simba SC emphasized that safety will continue to be a top priority in all future matches.
The penalty follows the disturbances during the December match against CS Sfaxien, which led to CAF’s investigation and the subsequent disciplinary measures.