UEFA has opened an investigation into alleged discriminatory behavior by Serbian fans during their Euro 2024 match against England, which ended in a 1-0 victory for the Three Lions. The Times reported that racist chants were heard during the first half of the game, targeting England players of color.
In a statement released on Monday, UEFA confirmed the disciplinary investigation into the alleged discriminatory behavior, alongside another inquiry concerning offensive banners against Kosovo. This is not the first time Serbia has faced sanctions for the conduct of its fans. In November, UEFA punished Serbia for similar incidents during a Euro 2024 qualifier against Bulgaria, where Montenegro was the target of abuse.
Additionally, during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Serbian fans displayed racist banners and directed insults towards Albanians during a match against Switzerland. The recurring nature of such incidents raises concerns about the persistent issue of discrimination within Serbian football and highlights the need for stricter measures to address it.
The investigation by UEFA underscores the organization's commitment to combating racism and discrimination in football. The outcome of the investigation could lead to sanctions against the Serbian Football Association, including potential fines or restrictions on future matches. It serves as a reminder that discriminatory behavior has no place in sports and that all stakeholders must work together to create a more inclusive and respectful environment for everyone involved.
