Riot police were forced to deploy in Birmingham city centre on Sunday night as violent scenes erupted following England's heartbreaking Euro 2024 final defeat to Spain.
Shocking footage circulating on social media shows chaotic scenes of smashed windows, vandalised buses, and aggressive confrontations between police and what appears to be football supporters turning violent.
West Midlands Police confirmed they responded to significant public disorder around the city centre following the match. Multiple officers in riot gear were seen rushing toward the disturbances as projectiles were thrown and fights broke out among the crowds.
City Centre Chaos Captured on Video
Disturbing videos from the scene show a double-decker bus with its windows completely smashed out while police officers attempt to control the situation. Another clip captures a large group of individuals aggressively confronting law enforcement officers in the street.
The violence appears to have centred around popular nightlife areas, with businesses potentially affected by the unexpected outbreak of disorder following the national team's loss.
Police Response and Public Safety
West Midlands Police issued statements confirming their response to "disorder in Birmingham city centre" following the match. Authorities urged the public to avoid the area as they worked to disperse crowds and restore order.
The timing of the violence—following England's second consecutive European Championship final defeat—has raised questions about fan behaviour and security preparations for major sporting events.
This incident marks another chapter in the troubling history of football-related violence in the UK, despite extensive efforts to combat hooliganism in recent decades.
