The San Francisco 49ers have announced what many expected -- they won't continue their annual preseason game against the Oakland Raiders. The two teams met last weekend and several episodes of fan violence broke out ranging from fights between fans to a shooting.
Raiders-49ers Preseason Games Won’t Continue, Teams Announce
This is the best outcome for both sides. Unfortunately, a small percentage of the fans at Candlestick Park last weekend created a situation that simply wasn’t safe for anyone. A few bad apples ruins it for the bunch.
The 49ers announced that they would be stiffening up the security around the stadium following last weekend’s incidents.
Team officials also announced Monday that the 49ers would tighten tailgating rules and crack down on season ticket holders who sell their seats to troublemakers in the wake of two shootings and a beating at the stadium.
Raiders CEO Amy Trask took to the radio to denounce the violence, and to defend the overall perception of Raiders fans.
“I’m aware of the perception, and I don’t believe the perception is the reality,” she said. “Stereotypes are insidious. It’s so simple to stereotype Raiders fans. It’s an easy story. If you are hearing frustration coming through in my voice it’s because there’s frustration in my voice.”
The games end for now but they won’t stop forever. Because of how the league determines the schedule, the two teams will be meeting every four years when the AFC West faces the NFC West.
Check out SB Nation’s Bay Area for the full scoop on the story of ending the annual game.
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