Bermuda Football Association (BFA) Official Statement
IslandStats.com
The Bermuda Football Association (BFA) is outraged by the incident that took place at Southampton Rangers Sports Club during the scheduled match between Devonshire Colts and Paget Lions.
The actions of the individuals who stormed the field armed with weapons were reckless, dangerous, and completely unacceptable in any setting—let alone at a community sporting event.
Let us be absolutely clear: This type of activity has no place in football, no place in our clubs, and no place in Bermuda.
What occurred yesterday is not just a “football problem.” It is a Bermuda problem—one that we are seeing in too many of our public spaces, whether at Cup Match, Harbour Nights, our restaurants, school events, community gatherings, or neighbourhood functions. What happened yesterday is a stark reminder that we all share in the responsibility of protecting these spaces.
The BFA condemns the attackers’ actions and will fully support law enforcement as they identify and hold accountable those responsible. We also commend the quick response of match officials, club staff, and the Bermuda Police Service, whose actions prevented what could have been a far more serious situation.
The BFA will not tolerate behaviour that threatens the safety of players, officials, or spectators. We are immediately reviewing our security protocols and will work closely with clubs, venues, and law enforcement partners to strengthen protections around all BFA-sanctioned football events.
But safeguarding Bermuda’s community spaces cannot fall on one organization alone.
We are calling on the entire Bermuda public to stand with us in strongly rejecting and condemning this behaviour wherever it appears. This includes parents, supporters, community leaders, and every individual who wants to see our island remain a safe place.
Violence is not who we are as Bermudians, and we must not allow the actions of a few to overshadow the positive contributions of our clubs, our youth, and the football community at large.
The BFA remains committed to the integrity of the sport and to fostering a safe, respectful, and unified environment for everyone who loves football.
