Futsal match in Limassol abandoned following fan violence
On May 7, 2026, a futsal championship final between AEL and APOEL at the Nikos Solomonidis Stadium in Limassol was permanently abandoned due to violent disturbances. Fans of the home team, AEL, threw objects and firecrackers onto the pitch before entering the playing area, prompting police to use tear gas inside the facility to restore order. Clashes continued outside the stadium, involving stone-throwing and further use of pyrotechnics, which resulted in minor damage to five parked vehicles. While AEL issued a statement condemning the violence and criticizing the officiating, the police arrested a 19-year-old male who was subsequently remanded in custody for four days. Police are currently seeking four additional individuals for questioning regarding conspiracy, rioting, and violations of the sports violence prevention law. No serious injuries were reported, though many attendees, including children, suffered respiratory distress from the tear gas. The Cyprus Football Association (CFA) has referred the status of the match to the sports judge for a final decision.