Serbia charged by UEFA for antics in England clash as two investigations launched

UEFA have charged the Serbian FA over the antics of their fans before Sunday's game with England. A goal from Jude Bellingham gave the Three Lions a 1-0 win in their Euro 2024 opener, but the build-up to the game had been marred by both sets of fans clashing in Gelsenkirchen.

And now UEFA have confirmed they have opened proceedings over the behaviour of Serbia's supporters.

In a released statement, the organisational body confirmed that two matters were being investigated.

The statement read: "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."

The two charges were officially listed as 'Throwing of objects' and 'Transmitting a provocative message unfit for a sports event'. The statement added: "UEFA Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector will conduct a disciplinary investigation regarding alleged discriminatory behaviour."

Prior to kick-off, tables and chairs were thrown in Gelsenkirchen, with seven Serbia fans arrested. One of those was confirmed as being the subject of a criminal complaint for grievous bodily harm.

Local police later released a statement, saying: "It was an altercation between English and Serbian fans, who were separated by the police. Further measures are underway and the background is currently being clarified."

The clashes allegedly started when England fans tried to enter a steakhouse that was already full of Serbia supporters. One England fan was reportedly taken to hospital, but discharged himself in time to make the game.

The UK Football Policing Unit also said they believed it was largely the Serbian fans involved in the trouble. Around 10,000 fans from the Balkan country were reportedly in the city, compared to 20,000 from England.

There were more unsavoury scenes after the final whistle. Serbian fans were filmed jumping around and chanting support for Vladimir Putin.

Serbia's next game comes on Thursday, when they face Slovenia at the Allianz Arena in Munich. Later that night, England take on Denmark in Frankfurt.