Toronto FC has turfed one of its supporters groups after an investigation into a fiery display by fans at a Canadian Championship game in Ottawa.
Flares and smoke bombs led to small fires in the stands and the pitch at TD Place in the July 18 match, with a cannon-like blast heard several blocks away from the stadium.
The so-called Inebriatti supporters’ group eventually took responsibility, saying the incidents — while not acceptable — were “unplanned and accidental.” The MLS club said an investigation by the club and Ottawa police confirmed that Inebriatti members had been involved.
“The incident consisted of a co-ordinated group of fans discharging prohibited pyrotechnic devices in the stands which created a significant risk to the safety of fans, venue staff and players, damaged the stadium property, and disrupted the match,” TFC said in a statement.
READ MORE: Toronto FC suspends supporter group privileges after incident in stands at game against Ottawa Fury
As a result, the team has imposed “immediate and permanent termination” of Inebriatti’s status as an official supporters group and refunded all tickets associated with the group.
Inebriatti members will be prohibited from entering the south end and supporters section of BMO Field until they have completed the online MLS Fan Conduct Education Class at their own expense.
The club said several individuals have also been banned from BMO Field and MLSE-owned properties indefinitely. The ban includes members of Inebriatti and non-members.
READ MORE: Toronto FC soccer fan group triggers blast, ignites fire in the stands at Ottawa Fury game
An Ottawa Police spokeswoman said the TD Place incident is still under investigation.
A Toronto FC spokesman, meanwhile, said he could not provide specifics numbers on the ousted Inebriatti or how many people had been banned.
There was no immediate response on Inebriatti’s social media channels.
In the wake of the Ottawa incident, Toronto also suspended supporter privileges for the U-Sector and Original 109, meaning they could not bring in flags, drums or other paraphernalia. Both have since been reinstated.
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It has been business as usual for the Red Patch Boys, Kings in the North and Tribal Rhythm Nation.
On their website, the Inebriatti describe themselves as “dedicated Toronto FC supporters and fans of the game of football.”
“We are not a fan club. We will be in the stands through the good times and the bad. We will celebrate every goal, though not be afraid to say when we are disappointed. We welcome members from all sections of BMO field and all backgrounds of life. We are all the same in Section 114.”
The Inebriatti, one of the supporters groups in the south end of BMO Field, have been in hot water before.
In 2016, other supporters groups joined forces in going silent during a home game against Orlando to protest sanctions against the Inebriatti after an obscene banner was raised in its section during a loss to visiting Montreal. TFC called the banner “an embarrassment” to the club and its supporters.
The Inebriatti group was also sanctioned for misbehaviour in Montreal in the final game of the 2015 regular season after Toronto fans lit flares and damaged Saputo Stadium.
The relationship between MLS clubs and supporters groups can be a delicate dance at times. Flag-waving, drum-beating supporters crank up the stadium atmosphere, make for good TV and drive on the players. TFC players head to the south stand to applaud fans after games or celebrate big wins, leading the Viking clap in front of the hardcore fans.
But the role of hardcore supporter can be taken too far.
Flares and pyrotechnics add a dangerous element inside or outside the stadium. And the sight of fans with their faces covered is not a welcome image.
“It is Toronto FC’s highest priority to promote responsible fan behaviour in order to ensure that all fans have a safe and enjoyable game-day experience.” the club said in its statement.
Toronto coach Greg Vanney had little to add when asked about the sanctions Thursday.
“What I stand by is the club’s position on the situation,” he told reporters.