RAWA Statement on the Proposed Tyne–Wear Derby Bubble
A bubble match means away fans cannot get their ticket unless they travel on the official, police‑escorted coaches. No choice of transport, no freedom to plan your day. It places blanket restrictions on thousands of ordinary supporters. This would be the first bubble in the history of the Tyne–Wear derby, imposed after a fixture with only three arrests and described by police as “largely without incident.” There has been no consultation with supporters at any point in the seven months since that game.
Red and White Army is extremely concerned that such a drastic and restrictive measure has been pushed through without proper evidence, without meaningful engagement, and without any attempt to work with supporters on a proportionate plan.
The SAG minutes released this week raise serious questions. They show that concerns from the March derby were discussed, but they do not show any detailed evidence pack, incident data, intelligence summary or formal risk assessment being shared. The meeting appears to have centred almost entirely on a managed coach operation, with no alternative options formally presented, tested or compared. Supporter consultation didn’t happen before the recommendation was made, and “engagement” was only mentioned as something to do afterwards.
There is no sign of a balanced assessment of risk. Issues linked to independent travel were noted, but there is nothing to show these were weighed against the risks introduced by a compulsory coach operation. There is no distinction between different types of supporters, despite acknowledging that the vast majority behave responsibly. And there is nothing to show that targeted, less restrictive measures were even considered before deciding a bubble was the only answer.
Prior to receiving the SAG minutes (obtained via a Freedom of Information request), RAWA, the clubs, NUST and the FSA produced a detailed mitigation document. It sets out practical, proportionate steps covering behaviour, travel, stadium operations and policing. These include enhanced voluntary coach travel, managed rail options, alternative walking routes with larger buffer zones, targeted deployment at known congregation points, and strong fan‑led communications. Together, these measures offer a workable, collaborative approach that tackles the risks identified without removing supporter choice.
We have asked Northumbria Police to reassess the decision in light of these mitigations and the clear gaps in the SAG process. So far, they have refused to do so.
David Rose, Vice Chair of RAWA and Deputy CEO of the Football Supporters’ Association, said:
“A bubble is a backwards step for football policing. It strips away supporter freedoms, applies blanket restrictions to thousands of law‑abiding fans, and ignores a decade of progress in how high‑risk fixtures are managed. Supporters deserve better.”
Based on the information released to date, RAWA does not believe the case has been made that a compulsory bubble is necessary, proportionate or justified. We continue to urge Northumbria Police and partner agencies to revisit the decision and work with supporters and clubs on a safer, more balanced plan that respects both safety and supporter rights.
Supporters remain ready to work constructively with all stakeholders. What we need now is a willingness from Northumbria Police to do the same.
Supporters can read the full detail in the two documents linked below:
Joint Mitigation Proposal (RAWA, SAFC, NUFC, NUST, FSA)
RAWA Summary of SAG Minutes and Key Concerns
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