Disorderly Conduct by England Fans Results in Banning Orders
In recent news, six England fans have been issued football banning orders as a consequence of disorderly conduct during the build-up to the Euro 2024 match against Serbia in Gelsenkirchen on June 16. The UK Football Policing Unit (UKFPU) has been working closely with German authorities throughout the tournament to ensure the safety and security of all attendees.
Head of the UKFPU, Mick Johnson, commended the “swift action” taken and emphasized that there are consequences for those who engage in disorderly behavior, whether at home or abroad. Johnson also stressed the importance of responsible behavior, urging fans to drink responsibly, respect local cultures, and avoid getting involved in any form of disorder.
The six fans who have been issued banning orders will be prohibited from attending domestic matches and England internationals for the duration of their bans. Todd Hines, Liam Jackson, and Kyran Alcock have received three-year bans, while Lewis Dodsworth, Jack Hatton, and Gary McIvor have been issued five-year bans.
In addition to these six fans, four others have already appeared in court in the UK and have been ordered to surrender their passports as a condition of their release on bail. The UKFPU is also actively investigating several other individuals suspected of involvement in the disorder prior to England’s 1-1 draw against Serbia.
It is crucial to note that the vast majority of England fans in Germany have been behaving impeccably, and those involved in any form of disorder are a small minority. This has been the case throughout all of England’s fixtures thus far.
The actions taken by the UKFPU and German authorities highlight the commitment to maintaining a safe and enjoyable tournament atmosphere for all fans. By swiftly addressing incidents of disorderly conduct, they demonstrate that such behavior will not be tolerated and appropriate measures will be taken to ensure the overall security of the event.
It is essential for fans to remember their responsibility to represent their country in a positive light, both at home and abroad. By adhering to the guidelines set forth by authorities and respecting local customs, fans can contribute to a peaceful and enjoyable tournament experience for everyone involved.
As the Euro 2024 tournament continues, the UKFPU will remain vigilant in their efforts to ensure the safety of all fans and will work closely with their German counterparts to maintain order and security.