Strict Bag Ban at Elitloppet Due to Terrorism Threat – Changes for Trotting Fans

The high risk of terrorism means big changes for trotting fans

There will be very strict rules about what can be brought in during the Elitloppet at Solvalla. Photo: Tr Bild, Mathilda Ahlberg / Bildbyrån

Bags may not be brought into the Elitloppet.

The reason: an increase in the threat level of terrorism in Sweden.

– After a period of discussion with the police, we have now received the notification, says the CEO of Solvalla, Jörgen Forsberg.

Due to the increase in the threat of terrorism in Sweden, the police authority has decided to completely ban bags at large events in the country.

On Wednesday, the national track Solvalla announced that the ban on bags will also apply to all spectators during Elitloppet 2024 in Stockholm.

An elite race weekend is decided on the Swedish capital track between May 24-26.

But what does it mean in practice for the tens of thousands of trotting enthusiasts who make the pilgrimage until the end of the year?

“Work to make it easier”

Only people who need to bring a bag for medical reasons and people with children who need a diaper bag are free, which also applies to employees who, however, need to go through a special door and have their bags checked carefully.

– After a period of discussion with the police, we have now received the notice, but we will work to make it easier for our visitors as much as possible, explains the CEO of Solvalla Jörgen Forsberg in a press release.

“Safe and enjoyable”

There are no chances for Solvalla to get through any exemptions or exemptions, but the bag ban rule must be adhered to.

– I want to emphasize that there is no known danger to Solvalla or the Elitloppet, but the ban on bags is usually issued against major events in Sweden. The decision is not ours, but we must follow it, breaking it is considered a violation of the law of order. Bag bans at events are decided by the Police Authority. We have the greatest respect for their assessment and we want the Elitloppet to be as safe and enjoyable as possible, continues Jörgen Forsberg.

The police have decided to ban bags, which will also be involved during the Elitloppet. Photo: Tr Image

“The baggage ban also applies to plastic bags”

Those spectators who want to bring food into the arena will have to think again, and for those who want to store their bag in Solvalla, they will have to look around for designated areas outside the arena, where the storage fee is SEK 100.

– Unfortunately, it is not allowed to bring your own picnic, even if you carry the food directly in your hand. Instead, there will be a service area over the entire route, says Forsberg and concludes by stating what exactly is involved in the entrance:

– According to police authority, for example, a wallet or a small toilet bag is not a bag. No more than that is allowed. The bag ban also applies to plastic bags. A computer and cable go well, but not in a bag