UEFA Disciplinary Actions and Nationalist Incidents at Euro 2024

UEFA Disciplinary Actions at Euro 2024

UEFA, Europe’s football governing body, has imposed disciplinary actions on Balkan nations due to nationalist incidents at the Euro 2024 tournament in Germany. The latest measure was against Albania’s striker Mirlind Daku, who received a two-game suspension for leading fans in chanting anti-Serbian slogans after the Albania-Croatia match. The Albanian football federation was fined €47,250 in connection with the incident. Daku, who apologized on social media, is being investigated by UEFA for his alleged inappropriate behavior.

If Albania wins their upcoming decisive group-stage game against Spain, Daku will be ineligible to play in the subsequent knockout game. Croatia is also under investigation for potential racist behavior as fans reportedly chanted “Kill the Serbs” in Serbian during the Croatia-Albania match. Serbia had previously threatened to withdraw from Euro 2024 if UEFA did not take action. Football federations are accountable for their fans’ conduct at matches.

Albania’s Disciplinary Record in Euro 2024

Albania, despite playing only two games, has accumulated several disciplinary proceedings for misconduct in the tournament. The team faced four disciplinary charges following a single match against Italy, including fines for fans lighting flares, throwing objects, and displaying a controversial Albanian map. The Albanian federation has been hit with fines totaling €37,375 for these incidents.

Serbia was charged for displaying a nationalist banner during their match against England, featuring the territory of Kosovo with the slogan “No Surrender.” The Serbian Football Association received a €4,500 fine for fan misconduct during the game.

Journalist Ban and Nationalist Gestures

Kosovar journalist Arlind Sadiku had his Euro 2024 media accreditation revoked by UEFA for provoking Serbian fans during the Serbia-England game. Sadiku made a nationalist double-headed eagle gesture towards the Serbian fans during the live broadcast. The double-headed eagle is a symbol of ethnic pride in Albania, Kosovo, and other regions, often causing controversy when displayed in football stadiums.