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'Bubble' transport methods to return for Portsmouth V Southampton derby matches 'for the foreseeable future' Special measures were introduced last season in a bid to clamp down on disorder Special measures for football supporters travelling to South Coast Derby matches will be in place “for the foreseeable future”. Portsmouth and Southampton fans will once again have to go through “bubble” transport methods this season. Portsmouth Supporters Trust (PST) confirmed in a statement that such procedures are expected to be used for future Championship matches. Pompey fans had to go to specific locations and be bussed directly to St Mary’s Stadium last season. These included car parks at Fratton Park, Lakeside North Harbour in Cosham, and on the M3 near Winchester. Supporters had to congregate at 8am before heading along the closed M27 on September 14, 2025, for the 12pm kick off which ended 0-0. Saints fans went through similar procedures for the return fixture - a 1-1 draw - on January 25 this year. Alternate transport via train and cars was forbidden. Officers, including armed and mounted divisions, were stationed at several points along the routes to both stadiums. These measures were implemented by Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary in an effort to to clamp down on disorder. The PST board said in their recent survey that fans were divided on the issue. A total of 51 per cent in favour while 49 per cent were opposed. The trust said last season’s operation was “managed efficiently and well organised”, though significant improvements could be made. These include better timings so fans didn’t have to wait for several hours before kick off, and better catering and refreshment facilities in the bubble. “Representatives from both clubs acknowledged these points and confirmed that our comments would be considered as part of future planning,” the PST said. “We raised concerns over the scale of the policing operation and the associated costs, particularly if these costs ultimately fall on the clubs themselves. “Given that the bubble arrangements significantly reduce the likelihood of crowd disorder, we questioned whether the current level of policing remains proportionate. From the discussions, it was clear that the bubble arrangements are expected to remain in place for the foreseeable future, provided both clubs continue to compete in the same division. “While supporters will continue to hold differing views on the concept itself, the PST will remain engaged with both clubs and the police to ensure that supporters' interests are represented and that every opportunity is taken to improve the matchday experience.” Police and crime commissioner Donna Jones previously revealed that it will cost £500,000 to police both matches. The commissioner can charge each football club £32,000 to contribute toward the high cost. However, they only have to pay for policing their own property. Ms Jones previously said: “It is a real drain on our police officers. They are tired, and a lot of them are doing overtime on goodwill. It is expensive.” The first derby fixture of the new Championship season will be a 12pm kick off on Sunday, October 11, at St Mary’s. Pompey will then host Southampton at Fratton Park on February 28, 2027, with the match starting at midday.