A skin cancer charity is spearheading a fierce protest against Manchester City after the club prohibited fans from carrying their own sunblock inside the stadium despite the temperature hitting 32 degrees Celsius.
Yesterday’s Premier League match between Manchester City and Bournemouth began at 3 p.m., during sweltering weather, with fans sitting near to the field being directly exposed to the sun.
Fans were informed, however, that they were not permitted to bring their own sunscreen inside the Etihad Stadium.
Instead, fans were restricted to bringing a 500ml, transparent, disposable water bottle that could be replenished at the venue.
The leading skin cancer organization Melanoma UK has criticized the club’s policy, calling it “disappointing” and “extremely alarming.”
It stated: “Really? You won’t permit sunscreen inside the stadium, correct? Why is this the case?
You must be aware of the rise in skin malignancies and the threat posed by UVA and UVB.
“I am not here to criticize, but this is quite alarming. I’m excited to collaborate with you on the subject of consciousness. Numerous players have experienced melanoma.
Your supporter services staff has erred in this regard. You cannot expect a stadium full of supporters, the most of whom are youngsters, to not be carrying sunscreen.
“Assist in their protection by establishing contact with someone who can offer sunscreen within the stadium. This is such a letdown. Today, the organization stated, “If stadiums across the globe can install hand sanitizers, they can also install sunscreen.” We can all improve.
Elliot Levy initiated the criticism when he inquired if sunblock would be permitted inside the stadium.
However, the club responded through Twitter, stating, “Hi Elliot, sunblock will not be authorized upon stadium admission.” We recommend that volunteers apply this before to their arrival and bring a cap and drink.
Elliott then responded, “Seriously? During such a day, I believe you need to reevaluate your plans immediately.
“The East Stand lowest tier will be bathed in 30 degree heat for the whole day, and you’re telling them they can’t carry sunblock?” We must endure the heat without shade for two hours?’
Another Twitter user said, “I’m traveling to the game with a cousin who just had treatment for skin cancer, and we’ll be seated in the Lower East Stand.”
“It’s absurd if we’re not permitted to carry in sunblock, particularly since they’ve loosened restrictions on drinks.” Restore order, City.
Another enthusiast, Ian Elliot, said, “Wow!” My kid has cystic fibrosis and must wear sunblock while he is on many medicines; this is what I would call discrimination, and the sun may also cause skin cancer.
“In this weather, sunscreen is essential for good health. Unbelievable.’
Fans are generally prohibited from bringing water or other beverages into the stadium; however, it is claimed that this restriction has been lifted owing to the high heat.
Additionally, the club said that people who need to bring sunblock or other forbidden items may contact their access team.
The Met Office issued a yellow warning for ‘severe heat’ over the weekend as temperatures surpassed 35 degrees Celsius in southern regions.
The Football Supporters’ Association has requested teams to modify their policies in order to assist supporters during the hot day in the stands.
Requests for comment have been made to Manchester City.