Barça fans’ bus catches fire in Belgium

A major scare shook FC Barcelona supporters in Belgium ahead of their Champions League clash with Club Brugge. A shuttle bus provided by the Belgian club to transport fans caught fire roughly an hour and a half before kickoff. According to police reports, the fire began when a supporter lit a flare inside the vehicle. Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported, only a few people with minor burns who were treated immediately by local medical services.

The incident triggered the mobilization of multiple fire and ambulance units, who quickly contained the flames and evacuated the passengers before the fire spread to other vehicles. The panic among fans was evident, as many tried to escape through the bus windows while a thick column of black smoke filled the area.

Fan arrested after the fire

Belgian police confirmed that a Barcelona supporter was arrested for lighting the flare that caused the blaze. While the investigation is ongoing, the arrested individual could face charges for endangering passengers. Authorities emphasized that pyrotechnic devices are strictly prohibited and pose a serious danger in enclosed spaces.

In response, Club Brugge temporarily suspended shuttle bus services for Barça fans, leaving groups to arrange their own transportation to and from the Jan Breydel Stadium. Police escorted supporters from the city center to safe pickup points for alternative transport.

Reactions from FC Barcelona and UEFA

FC Barcelona issued an official statement expressing regret over the incident and thanking the Belgian authorities for their swift response. The club confirmed it will fully cooperate with the police to clarify the facts and prevent similar situations in the future. It also reminded fans to maintain exemplary behavior during international trips.

UEFA also released a statement addressing the event, noting that it will strengthen security measures around Champions League matches and reiterating that flares and flammable materials are strictly prohibited on buses and inside stadiums.

A match played under close watch

Despite the scare, the match between FC Barcelona and Club Brugge went ahead as scheduled, though under tighter police surveillance than usual. Fans who managed to reach the stadium witnessed Barça’s 3–3 draw, while the club decided to suspend return bus services as a precautionary measure.

The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of fan safety and the shared responsibility to prevent reckless behavior that could endanger lives during sporting events.