Pitch invasion
A pitch invasion (known in North America as field storming or rushing the field)happens when someone or a group of people watching a sports event rush onto the playing area, often to celebrate, protest, or create a spectacle. In many cases, these actions can lead to legal consequences, including criminal charges, fines, or even imprisonment. Additionally, the club associated with the event may face penalties, especially if the invasion disrupts the game. However, there are instances where pitch invasions are accepted or even celebrated if a large number of spectators enter the field when the game is not in progress.
Pitch Invasion Media
Stoke City fans invade the pitch at the Britannia Stadium to celebrate promotion to the Premier League in 2008.
A police officer tackles a lone field invader at a 2011 Baltimore Orioles game.
Ecstatic Washington Huskies college football fans storm the field in celebration after defeating the heavily favored No. 3 USC Trojans in an upset.
Houston Cougars football fans rushing the field after defeating rival Texas Tech in 2009
Oregon State football fans prepare to rush the field in a historic upset of #3 USC in 2006
River Plate supporters invade the field during the 1945 league title.
Sheffield Wednesday fans invade the pitch to celebrate promotion to the Championship on 5 May 2012.
The first pitch invasion at the new Wembley Stadium by Millwall supporters, May 2017.
A post-game kick-to-kick match is a rare sight. This follows an AFL match between the Melbourne Demons and Port Adelaide Power at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. 16,000 fans were let onto the turf.
Spectators celebrating Buddy Franklin's 100th goal of the season in the final round of the regular AFL season.
