Serbia has issued a stark ultimatum, threatening to withdraw from Euro 2024 following contentious chants reportedly exchanged between Croatian and Albanian fans during a recent match.
During Wednesday’s Group B encounter, chants referencing the killing of Serbians were audible during the 2-2 draw, prompting UEFA to launch an investigation into the incident.
Jovan Surbatovic, General Secretary of the Football Association of Serbia, minced no words in his response, insisting on severe penalties: “What happened is scandalous and we will ask UEFA for sanctions, even if it means not continuing the competition.”
Serbia, situated in Group C, commenced their Euro 2024 campaign with a 1-0 defeat against England last Sunday.
Surbatovic expressed confidence in UEFA’s forthcoming actions following their decision to revoke the credentials of Kosovo journalist Arlind Sadiku, who gestured with a nationalist double-handed eagle towards Serbian fans during the match against England.
“We will demand UEFA punish both federations,” Surbatovic asserted. “We do not wish to partake in such matters, but if UEFA fails to act, we will reassess our position.”
In response, the Serbian FA has formally written to UEFA General Secretary Theodore Theodoridis, highlighting what they described as “shameful joint chanting.”
UEFA subsequently confirmed the initiation of disciplinary proceedings against the Croatian and Albanian Football Associations, focusing on potential racist or discriminatory conduct by supporters during the match.
Moreover, UEFA is investigating alleged misconduct by Albania forward Mirlind Daku, who reportedly addressed supporters through a megaphone after the game.
Serbia had previously incurred fines totaling £12,250 due to incidents involving fan behavior during their match against England. Both Serbia and Albania were also fined for displays of nationalist symbols by fans during their respective opening matches.
“We were penalized for isolated incidents, yet our fans exhibited better conduct,” Surbatovic emphasized. “One fan was sanctioned for racist remarks, and we do not wish such actions to reflect on others. Serbians are known for their integrity, and I urge fans to uphold this reputation.”
Following Serbia’s 1-1 draw against Slovenia on Thursday in Munich, opinions among Serbian fans were divided regarding their FA’s stance.
“We should separate politics from sports,” remarked Bico Kruc, while Julian Dragotinovic-Potkovsk added, “Everyone should do as they wish. We have our flag, our colors; we are unconcerned with the actions of others.”
With one point from two matches in Group C, Serbia faces a pivotal decision amid ongoing tensions and disciplinary actions within Euro 2024.
