The long-awaited new fan card is finally set to be introduced within the next 15 days, pending budget approval from the central committee for changes and demands (Keaa) of the ministry of finance.

According to sources, a meeting between members of the Cyprus sports organisation (Koa) and Keaa was scheduled for Wednesday. The purpose is to secure additional funds required for the card’s implementation. Once approved, applications will open within the next fortnight.

January was dedicated to pilot testing within Koa to identify and address any gaps in the system. Following necessary software improvements, the card is now deemed ready for full-scale implementation. With the green light from the finance ministry, the next phase will begin.

Upon the official announcement of the application process, priority will be given to those without a fan card. Koa aims to manage the initial demand efficiently, avoiding overwhelming application numbers. This staged approach will also serve as a final pilot phase and allow staff to familiarise themselves with the process before handling mass applications.

The priority group will have between 15 days to a month to apply. After this period, the system will open for existing fan cardholders to renew their cards. From March until May 31, renewals will be processed, and from June 1, entry to stadiums will only be permitted with the new fan card.

The selection of this date aligns with the renewal period for season tickets, which also require an updated fan card.

Regarding digital integration, it is expected that the fan card will be included in the government’s digital citizen services. However, no specific timeline has been given for this implementation.

Once issued, the new card will be valid for five years before requiring renewal to ensure accurate facial recognition. For those under 18, a renewal will be needed upon reaching adulthood, after which the standard five-year validity applies.

The revamped card will come into effect for European matches and the new domestic league season, rather than the current one. Delays in development pushed its launch beyond the original September deadline. Despite setbacks, authorities hope the updated system will enhance stadium security and prevent incidents that the older system could not address.

Koa officials stress that full success will also depend on football clubs investing in properly trained stewards. Some teams, they claim, rely on hiring retirees as a cost-cutting measure. This compromises security, as these stewards are unlikely to intervene in serious incidents. Additionally, fan culture needs to shift towards self-policing, where supporters discourage disruptive behaviour.

Meanwhile, delays have also affected two legislative bills addressing stadium violence, which were due to be submitted to the cabinet in December or early January. The revised timeline now targets submission by early February.

These bills propose bringing fan clubs under the direct supervision of teams or companies, making clubs accountable for crowd trouble. They also introduce drug and alcohol testing for individuals suspected of substance use before entering stadiums.

Authorities hope these measures, combined with the new fan card, will create a safer and more regulated matchday experience.