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 European football governing body confirmed that an ethics and disciplinary inspector will examine claims of racist abuse directed at England players, 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's investigation is expected to take several weeks.
Serbia have also been formally charged on two counts: for their supporters displaying a banner that 'transmitted a provocative message unfit for a sports event', and for throwing objects inside the stadium. This follows a previous incident in November when 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 match. He was arrested at Manchester Airport under the Football Spectators Act 1989 and will appear in court for a Civil Football Banning Order Hearing. Mick Johnson, head of the UK Football Policing Unit, warned that supporters causing disorder abroad could face police action upon return.
