UEFA have confirmed they have launched an investigation into alleged Serbia racist chants after their match against England on Sunday night ended in defeat.
On the pitch, Serbia were downed by an early header from Jude Bellingham and off it, they were at the centre of the first bit of violence at the tournament when fights broke out between them and England fans before kick-off in Gelsenkirchen.
On that, German police have revealed that around 150 fans were involved in the brawl and that one England fan and seven Serbia fans have been arrested.
16.06.2024 #EURO2024🇩🇪#England🏴 #Hools + few #Albania🇦🇱 #Ultras attacked pub with #Serbia🇷🇸 Win: SRB
After short fight Serbia chased England away #POLICE stopped Serbians who beat up English Hools left behind
At least 3 English fans injured and 1 Serbian fan #SRBENg pic.twitter.com/Qm6L1naB25— Fanatico Football (@fanatico_japan) June 16, 2024
And now, it has been revealed that Serbia are at the centre of further fan controversy after UEFA released a statement saying that their fans are being investigated for possible racist chanting.
UEFA statement on alleged Serbia racist chants
On Monday, UEFA released the following statement:
“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.
“Charges against Football Association of Serbia (FSS): Throwing of objects, transmitting a provocative message unfit for a sports event. The UEFA Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body (CEDB) will decide on the matter in due course.
“Furthermore, a UEFA Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector will conduct a disciplinary investigation regarding alleged discriminatory behaviour.”
It is believed that the complaint was made by undercover observers inside the stadium and that it didn't come from the English FA. According to ITV, no England players were aware of any racist chants during the match.
What could happen to Serbia after racism investigation?
It's been 24 hours to forget for the Serbian Football Association. They have had to contend with several fans being arrested for fighting, a 1-0 loss on the pitch and now investigations relating to racism and offensive banners.
It's unclear how long these investigations will take but given Serbia were forced to play in front of a partially closed stadium due to racist chanting as recently as November, the punishment would likely be severe if they are found guilty.
If that verdict was to come in while they are still active at Euro 2024, then calls to have them removed from the tournament are expected.