Met prepares for Arsenal Champions Parade

The Met is preparing for one of its largest policing operations of the year so far ahead of the Arsenal Champions Parade in north London this weekend.

More than 500 officers will be deployed across the event on Sunday, alongside specialist search and drone teams, to ensure the thousands of people who are expected to attend are kept safe.

The Met has been working closely with Arsenal Football Club, Islington Council, Transport for London and emergency services partners for several months to plan the event. This coordinated approach is designed to ensure the parade is safe, well organised and enjoyable for everyone attending.

Commander Stuart Bell, leading the Met’s public order operation this weekend, said:

“The parade is an opportunity for Arsenal supporters to celebrate, and we want everyone attending to enjoy the day safely.

“There will be a police presence along the route throughout the event, supporting event organisers and stewarding operations. Officers will respond to incidents where necessary.

“We expect the vast majority of those attending on Sunday to do so safely and responsibly.

“However, anti-social behaviour, violence or any other type of criminality will not be tolerated. Officers will take action against anyone attempting to cause disruption or harm.”

Preparations for the parade will begin around the Emirates Stadium on Saturday. To support these preparations, the Met and Arsenal Football Club are asking supporters not to gather at the stadium, particularly on Saturday evening, as this could delay essential safety checks and impact the delivery of the parade the following day.

Supporters planning to attend on Sunday are advised to plan their journey in advance, follow guidance, and listen to instructions from stewards and officers on the day.

The parade begins at 2pm and is expected to last around two hours. The parade follows a circular route. There will not be a trophy lift along the route as the buses will move continuously.

Emirates Stadium, Drayton Park and the surrounding roads will be closed throughout the parade and will not be accessible to the public.

Supporters are encouraged not to congregate around the stadium area, Hornsey Road, Benwell Road, or Drayton Park as you will not see the parade from these locations.

Further information, including details of the route and local road closures, can be found on the Arsenal website.

The parade takes place alongside several other major events across London this weekend, including the FA Cup Women’s Final at Wembley on Sunday.