In the first round of Group C matches at the European Championship, Serbia versus England. Hours before the kickoff, a large-scale brawl erupted outside the stadium, with innocent English fans becoming victims.
According to police sources speaking to The Post, at least six individuals were arrested in connection with the fight. It is alleged that the clash was sparked by Albanians, historical rivals of Serbia, attacking Serbians. Some Serbian fans claim that they were later also attacked by individuals who claimed to be British outside a bar.
A spokesperson for the UK Football Policing Unit said, “We are aware of issues in Gelsenkirchen ahead of the England vs Serbia fixture. Our German colleagues have arrested a number of people we currently believe to be Serbian supporters. At this stage, we have not arrested any British citizens, but the investigation is ongoing.”
“Our officers are on the scene engaging with our German counterparts. Our investigation team is reviewing footage of the incident, and should any British citizens be involved, we will seek football banning orders.”
A Briton named Larry, who wished to remain anonymous, said he was drinking with Serbians when a group of men wearing balaclavas “ran around the corner and started throwing bottles.” He added, “I ran away after seeing tables smashed and chairs thrown.”
His friend, another British resident of Belgrade who also preferred not to be named, chimed in, “This was planned. They threw bottles, and I just ran.”