Leeds United: Fans gather at Elland Road to celebrate club’s promotion to Premier League
West Brom’s defeat by Huddersfield ensured Leeds returned to the top flight after a sixteen-year wait
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Leeds United supporters gathered outside the club’s stadium to celebrate their team’s promotion to the Premier League on Friday evening.
Fans had been urged by Leeds owner Andrea Radrizzani and the police to stay at home in the case of a return to the top flight, but the advice was not heeded.
West Brom lost to Huddersfield 2-1 earlier in the evening to ensure Leeds’ return to the Premier League after 16 years away, and supporters of Marcelo Bielsa’s side rushed to Elland Road to celebrate with one another.
The scenes were reminiscent of those at Anfield in June when Liverpool won the Premier League for the first time in 30 years.
Social distancing guidelines in England dictate that people should maintain a one-metre distance from one another to reduce the risk of spreading coronavirus.
Radrizzani had said it was “vitally important we stay safe and keep those around us safe too by staying at home”, adding in an open letter: “The fight against Covid-19 is not yet over and we must continue to be sensible.”
Meanwhile, a spokesperson for West Yorkshire Police said earlier this week: “It’s important to remember that Covid-19 is still with us and large gatherings are still not permitted. We understand that fans will want to celebrate, but ask them to bear in mind their own safety and wellbeing, as well as that of others.
“The safety of fans and the wider public is our primary concern and the safest way that people can celebrate is in their own homes.”
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments