UEFA Investigates Racist Abuse in Serbia vs England Euro 2024 Match
“UEFA are reportedly investigating claims that black England players were subjected to racist abuse, including monkey chants, by Serbia fans during their Euro 2024 opening match in Gelsenkirchen on Sunday night.”
The England team secured a 1-0 victory in the highly anticipated clash, but the match was marred by allegations of racist abuse directed at the black England players.
According to The Times, the sickening abuse was heard during the first half of the game, although the complaint has not been filed by the FA. UEFA has stated that a disciplinary investigation regarding the alleged discriminatory behavior is underway, conducted by an ethics and disciplinary inspector.
The governing body has made it clear that they will not pursue the case unless the allegation is supported by strong evidence. Fare (formerly Football Against Racism in Europe) anti-discrimination observers were present at the Arena AufSchalke to monitor the situation.
Additionally, UEFA has revealed that an inspector has been assigned to initiate disciplinary proceedings for the “throwing of objects” and “transmitting a provocative message unfit for a sports event,” which is said to stem from a flag’s nationalistic slogan.
Serbia’s Past Punishments for Racist Behavior
Serbia has faced previous punishments for racist behavior, including having to play a Euro 2024 qualifier against Bulgaria in November with a partially-closed stadium due to fan behavior against Montenegro. Their 2022 World Cup match against Switzerland also saw fans direct racist chants at ethnic Albanians and display fascist slogans.
In preparation for Euro 2024, UEFA addressed racism with match officials last week and reminded all 24 competing nations, including England, about the three-step protocols in place to deal with such abuse. FA CEO Mark Bullingham also stated that European football’s organization is funding police to prosecute those who send abuse to players on social media.
The investigation into the alleged racist incidents during the Serbia vs. England match is ongoing, and UEFA is expected to take appropriate action if the allegations are substantiated.
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