The Metropolitan Police will deploy fewer mounted officers at London football matches as part of £3 million budget cuts, raising concerns about crowd control at fixtures across the capital.
The reduction means police horses and their riders - long seen as crucial for managing large crowds - will have a diminished presence at matches. The decision has sparked debate over public safety at high-profile sporting events where tens of thousands of fans gather.
Mounted units have traditionally been a cornerstone of security operations at football matches, protests and ceremonial events. Officers on horseback can survey crowds from an elevated position, allowing for early intervention and de-escalation when tensions rise. Their visible presence often acts as both a deterrent to disorder and an effective way of safely moving large groups.
The cuts reflect the financial pressures facing police forces nationwide. While the Met has not detailed exactly how the £3 million will be saved across departments, the mounted unit reduction represents one of the most visible consequences for Londoners.
Football clubs, supporter groups and local authorities are watching closely to see how the changes affect matchday operations. High-risk fixtures often present complex security challenges, and the absence of mounted police may force a complete rethink of crowd management strategies.
The Met has yet to outline alternative measures or reveal how remaining mounted unit resources will be allocated. A risk-based assessment is expected to determine which matches - likely the highest-risk fixtures or those with a history of public order problems - will still receive mounted police support.