The tragedy known as the FNB stampede, which claimed the lives of two supporters prior to the Soweto Derby on Saturday, was avoidable, according to the chairperson of parliament’s committee on sports.

The annual pre-season spectacle was marred by the deaths of two supporters, following reports that the police had confiscated fake tickets at the Soweto Derby.

Chairperson Beauty Dlulane issued her condolences to those affected by the loss, and in no uncertain terms highlighted that the event should not have happened.

‘Accidents of this nature are avoidable and should not be happening, as South Africa is experienced in games of that magnitude,’ she told Times Live.

‘When spectators come to stadiums‚ there should be plans in place that guarantee their safety.

‘The Premier Soccer League is experienced in hosting big matches and events.

‘Security plans and crowd control measures should not be compromised. All the matches between the Soweto Giants are crowd-pullers and planning for such matches should be done accordingly,’ she concluded.

Photo: Muzi Ntombela/Backpagpeix