UEFA have launched an investigation into alleged chants being made towards England stars during their Euro 2024 clash with Serbia.
The European footballing governing body have deployed match observers in the stadiums around Germany throughout the competition.
According to The Mirror, those present at the Arena AufSchalke stadium in Gelsenkirchen on Sunday night allegedly heard monkey chants during the match and have prompted an investigation by UEFA.
One supporter is said to have been seen making the chants, but they were not arrested or removed from the stadium despite police being present inside the stadium. UEFA have now announced that they are looking into the matter after match observers flagged the incident.
It has also been claimed that Serbia fans were seen throwing objects in the stands and displaying inflammatory flags about Kosovo, despite being warned of the consequences of such action ahead of the tournament.
If the allegation is proven then the Serbian FA are likely to be handed a fine by UEFA due to the conduct of their supporters.
In a statement released by UEFA, they said: “Disciplinary proceedings have been instigated in accordance with Article 55 of the UEFA Disciplinary Regulations (DR) following the UEFA European Championship group stage match between Serbia and England (0-1) played on 16 June 2024 in Gelsenkirchen, Germany.
“Throwing of objects, Art. 16(2)(b) DR. Transmitting a provocative message unfit for a sports event, Art. 16(2)(e) DR. The UEFA Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body (CEDB) will decide on the matter in due course. Furthermore, an UEFA Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector will conduct a disciplinary investigation regarding alleged discriminatory behaviour
Ahead of the clash between England and Serbia, UEFA ruled that the match was ‘high risk’ and therefore action was taken to attempt to diffuse any potential violence from breaking out inside the stadium or during the surrounding areas.
Beers were swapped to alternatives with lower alcohol percentages, whilst drinking in the stands was not permitted.
England went on to win the match 1-0, with Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham scoring the all-important goal on the night in what was a solid start to the group stage campaign by the Three Lions. Gareth Southgate struggled to create many openings up against the Serbian backline but managed to ex-Fulham star Aleksandr Mitrovic at arm’s length throughout in a victory that should put them on course to progressing into the knockout stages.
