Vuvuzelas banned from Europe by Uefa

The vuvuzela, the controversial plastic trumpet that provided an unceasing soundtrack to matches throughout the World Cup, will not be allowed to drown out the songs and chants of European football supporters in Europe. The instrument – if you can call it that - has been outlawed by Uefa.
 
Uefa said this morning it had made the decision "for reasons related to Europe's football culture and tradition". The ban will apply to all Uefa-sanctioned matches, including Euro 2012 qualifiers and Champions League and Europa League games.

"The magic of football consists of the two-way exchange of emotions between the pitch and the stands," said Uefa, "where the public can transmit a full range of feelings to the players.

"Uefa is of the view that the vuvuzelas would completely change the atmosphere, drowning supporter emotions and detracting from the experience of the game."
 
Vuvuzelas divided opinion during the World Cup. Some fans felt that they contributed to the unique atmosphere inside the stadia, but others were less impressed by the din. Many of the players were unhappy, too. "Those trumpets?” said Spanish midfielder Xabi Alonso. "That noise I don't like... Fifa must ban those things ... it is not nice to have a noise like that."
 
Fifa, the world governing body, refused to take action against the vuvuzela in South Africa because it was reckoned to be part of local footballing culture - although some commentators pointed out that it only became commonplace in recent years.
 
Uefa’s decision echoes that of many clubs in England, among them Arsenal and Spurs. The Gunners took the decision in order to "ensure the enjoyment and safety of supporters", or in other words, protect fans from the racket. Spurs expressed concern that they would drown out stadium announcements. ·