Security is being stepped up at some of this weekend’s biggest sporting events amid fears they will be targeted by protestors.
The FA Cup Final, the Epsom Derby, Rugby League’s Magic Weekend, and the third day of the England v Ireland cricket test take place on Saturday.
Wembley Stadium has plans to stop activists getting onto the pitch at the clash between Manchester City and Manchester United, where Prince William will present the FA Cup to the winners.
Stewards will be wearing football boots so they can sprint across the turf to halt invaders.
The 244th Epsom Derby will have the biggest security operation in the history of the race. Last week, the Jockey Club won a High Court injunction to stop protesters disrupting the event in Surrey.
It also spent an extra £150,000 on security for the race, more than twice the amount it paid for additional measures at the Grand National, which was delayed by Animal Rising activists in April.
Chief executive Nevin Truesdale said: ”We will never tolerate a repeat of the illegal disruption we saw on Grand National Day.
“Animal Rising have repeatedly made it explicitly clear that they intend to break the law and disrupt The Derby Festival and that left us with no choice but to seek this injunction.”
Animal Rising has been offered an area outside the racecourse for a peaceful protest.
But the group has vowed to defy the injunction. Spokeswoman Claudia Penna Rojas said yesterday: “I’m prepared to do what’s necessary to do what’s right by these animals and try to prevent them from being harmed.”
Surrey Police warned: “Any criminal activity or risk to public safety will not be tolerated, and we will take robust action in response to this.”
Legendary jockey Frankie Dettori, who is riding in his final Derby before retiring, said: “Let’s hope protesters don’t impede this beautiful event.”
The two-day Magic Weekend rugby takes place at Newcastle United’s St James’ Park.
A Rugby Football League spokesman said: “As for all our major events and matches, we have liaised with the relevant stadium and local law enforcement authorities.
“The security of players, supporters and the wider public is always our priority.”
On Thursday, Just Stop Oil protestors walked in front of the England cricket team’s bus, delaying it as it made its way to Lords in Central London for the first day of the test match between England and Ireland.
The MCC, which owns the ground, said: “Whilst protests would disrupt the game, we have a number of security measures in place to deter this.”
Just Stop Oil have also recently targeted the Premiership rugby union final between Saracens and Sale at Twickenham and the World Snooker Championship in Sheffield with orange powder.
Summer sport, including the Ashes, Wimbledon, the Grand Prix and the golf Open are in danger of being disrupted.
