Vuvuzelas kicked out of European football

Vuvuzelas have been shown a red card by European football's ruling body amid fears they could damage the game's "magic".

Uefa says the plastic trumpets drown out supporters and detract from the emotion of the sport.

The noisy horns became a hallmark of the World Cup in South Africa, producing a monotonous backdrop during every match.

But they will not be allowed in stadiums during Champions League, Europa League and Euro 2012 qualifying matches.

Uefa says it has taken the decision to "protect the culture and tradition of football in Europe".

A statement from Uefa said: "The World Cup was characterised by the vuvuzela's widespread and permanent use in the stands.

"In the specific context of South Africa, the vuvuzela adds a touch of local flavour and folklore.

"But Uefa feels that the instrument's widespread use would not be appropriate in Europe, where a continuous loud background noise would be emphasised."

The statement continues with a thinly-disguised attack on the controversial horn.

"The magic of football consists of the two-way exchange of emotions between the pitch and the stands, where the public can transmit a full range of feelings to the players.

"However, Uefa is of the view that the vuvuzelas would completely change the atmosphere, drowning supporter emotions and detracting from the experience of the game.

"To avoid the risk of these negative effects and to protect the culture and tradition of football in Europe, Uefa has decided with immediate effect that vuvuzelas will not be allowed in the stadiums where its competitions matches are played."