Uefa has launched an investigation into allegations of discriminatory chanting by Serbia fans during their team’s 1-0 defeat against England in Gelsenkirchen on Sunday. The probe follows reports that England players were targeted with racist abuse, although no complaints have been made by the England camp.
The Kosovan federation had earlier complained to Uefa about Serbian flags, chants and banners at the match, which it claimed contained “political, chauvinistic and racist messages against Kosovo”. Uefa confirmed an ethics and disciplinary inspector would examine “alleged discriminatory behaviour” by Serbian fans, reportedly from a spectator in the first half. The investigation is expected to take several weeks.
Serbia have also been charged on two counts: displaying a banner with a “provocative message unfit for a sports event” and throwing objects inside the stadium. In November, Serbia were ordered to play a Euro 2024 qualifier in a partially closed stadium after racist abuse marred their win against Montenegro.
Separately, a 39-year-old man from Bolton was detained upon his return to the UK following fan disorder before the England match. He was held at Manchester Airport under the Football Spectators Act 1989 and will face a Civil Football Banning Order hearing. Mick Johnson, head of the UK Football Policing Unit, warned that supporters causing disorder in Germany could face police action on their return.
