Investigation Launched into Altercation between Fan and Security at Euro 2024 Match
Authorities in Germany are looking into a video that seems to depict a soccer enthusiast being physically assaulted by security personnel during a Euro 2024 event. The footage, initially shared in Portuguese media, captured several security members in orange and yellow vests labeled as “stewards” detaining two individuals in a concrete passage leading to the field where Portugal was facing Slovenia in Frankfurt.
The video showed one individual being held on the ground while another was restrained against a wall and seemingly hit multiple times in the head before being dragged to the floor and subjected to further physical assault.
Following the video’s circulation, a user queried Frankfurt Police about the incident, to which the force responded, “We are cognizant of this situation and have already initiated an investigation.”
UEFA, the governing body of European football responsible for organizing the tournament, acknowledged the incident involving stewards and a fan from the Portugal versus Slovenia match and denounced any acts of violence. UEFA stated that the video’s content is now the subject of a police investigation, refraining from further commentary until the inquiry concludes.
Outcry for Accountability
Football Supporters Europe, a collective comprising fan groups from various countries collaborating with UEFA, demanded accountability for those found culpable, asserting that individuals engaging in such behavior have no place in stadiums and must face consequences for their actions.
In the knockout stage, Portugal emerged victorious over Slovenia in a penalty shootout following a goalless draw in regular time.
Security measures at Euro 2024 have been under intense scrutiny subsequent to incidents where fans breached pitch boundaries during a Portugal match in an attempt to take selfies with the team’s star player, Cristiano Ronaldo.
Despite Ronaldo obliging a young fan’s selfie request during the Turkey game, he exhibited visible frustration over other security lapses.
UEFA disclosed plans to enhance security protocols at stadiums, alongside imposing fines, notably two fines amounting to €20,000 (£17,000) against the German football federation. The fines were attributed to issues regarding order, security, and safeguarding the playing area during Portugal’s fixtures against the Czech Republic and Turkey.
