West Ham United surprised its fans by announcing the ban on “half-and-half” scarves for the London derby against Tottenham Hotspur, one of the most heated and traditional clashes in the Premier League. The unusual measure in England aims to reinforce security in what is considered a high-risk match.

A tradition that sparks controversy

These scarves, usually split between the colors and crests of both teams, are very popular among tourists visiting Premier League stadiums, as they serve as a commemorative souvenir of the match. They are sold around stadiums and typically feature the name and date of the game.

However, for this Saturday’s showdown at the London Stadium, West Ham announced that they will be strictly prohibited. Security checks will confiscate the scarves from any fan carrying them, and they will not be returned after the match.

The club’s management explained that the decision is meant to avoid confusion in the stands. With these items, there is a risk that away fans could infiltrate the home section, potentially leading to incidents in a matchup with an intense history of rivalry.

Kudus, protests, and a tense atmosphere

The clash between West Ham and Tottenham was already set to be tense for other reasons. One of the main storylines will be the return of Mohammed Kudus to the London Stadium, just a few months after his transfer to the Spurs. The move was particularly significant as it marked the first transfer between the two clubs since 2011, adding extra spice to the derby.

In addition, a section of the home supporters is expected to protest against owner David Sullivan. The most critical fans point to poor results over the past year and the club’s management, which could further intensify the atmosphere inside the stadium.

In this context, the ban on half-and-half scarves is not just a minor logistical detail but a preventive measure to minimize any potential conflict between two fan bases with a long history of clashes and fierce rivalry in London.