UEFA has fined the Albanian and Serbian soccer federations 10,000 euros ($10,700) each for fans displaying banners with nationalist maps at European Championship games. Each federation was charged with “transmitting provocative messages not fit for a sports event” because they are responsible for the conduct of their fans at stadiums.
Albanian fans displayed a banner with a map of their country extending its borders into the territory of neighboring countries. It was shown during the 2-1 loss against Italy on Saturday in Dortmund. Serbia fans’ banner included the independent territory of Kosovo and a slogan “No Surrender” at a 1-0 loss against England in Gelsenkirchen.
UEFA also opened a separate investigation into alleged discrimination by Serbia fans, after the Kosovo soccer federation filed a formal complaint. The Albanian federation was fined a further 27,375 euros ($29,400) for fans lighting flares and fireworks, throwing beer cups, and a fan who went onto the field.
Fans invading the playing area have been a regular feature in the first week of games at Euro 2024. UEFA announced the sanctions of its disciplinary panel hours after Albania drew 2-2 with Croatia in their second Group B game. Serbia’s federation must pay 4,500 euros ($4,800) more for fans throwing beer cups.