It’s been a wild 24 hours for FIFA World Cup fans, with plenty of announcements in regards to whether or not Fed Square will be used as a live site to show the matches next month. Yesterday, the Melbourne Arts Precinct declared that Fed Square would not hold public screenings for the World Cup. And just this morning, the Victorian premier Jacinta Allan said that she would overturn that decision, and that the World Cup screening will go ahead at Fed Square.
Here’s what’s happened so far
Yesterday, the organisers behind Fed Square put out a statement, announcing that due to unfortunate behaviour from attendees in the past, the iconic public square in Melbourne will not be airing the World Cup.
Back in 2023, Fed Square was initially used as a live site for the Women’s World Cup, but after flares were lit and visitors pushed through security barriers, the venue had to cancel public screenings in the interest of public safety.
The decision was met with frustration and disappointment, with Football Australia urging the organisers to change their minds.
“Live sites create iconic moments for Australian sports fans,” said Football Australia CEO Martin Kugeler. “They bring all Australians together to celebrate and cheer our National Teams competing on the biggest stage. Melbourne is one of Australia’s sporting and multicultural capitals, and this decision goes against this tradition.”
This morning, the Victorian government stepped in.
“I disagree with that decision – and I am overturning it,” said Premier Jacinta Allan. “The Government will ensure Fed Square has the support it needs to put on the matches this year. We’re also looking at additional events and live sites, so Victorians have more options to watch. Now more than ever, people deserve more free stuff to do together to the city.”
Regarding concerns about public safety, she added, “There’s always a risk of bad behaviour from a few dickheads at every public gathering, but police and security will be on site, and there’ll be zero tolerance for it.”
Fed Square Director and CEO Katrina Sedgwick has put out a statement, welcoming the decision. “We’ll work closely with the Victorian Government, City of Melbourne and Victoria Police to create a safe and secure environment, and we look forward to seeing the Socceroos back on the world stage, and on the Big Screen next month,” she said.
The FIFA World Cup will kick off on Friday, June 12, with Mexico taking on South Africa at 4am.