UEFA investigate claims that Serbia fans racially abused England players during Euro 2024 clash

UEFA have confirmed that an Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector is looking into the accusations of "discriminatory behaviour" from Serbia fans inside the stadium. The Times has reported that the complaint was not made by the FA, but that abuse was heard during the first half of the 1-0 England win in Gelsenkirchen.

In addition to the investigation, the Football Association of Serbia has already also been hit with two UEFA charges relating to fan behaviour during the game. One centred on the throwing of objects and the other is regarding the transmitting of a "provocative message unfit for a sports event." Following unrest in the build-up to the game, seven Serbia fans and one England fan were arrested by local police.

A UEFA statement explained: "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, an UEFA Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector will conduct a disciplinary investigation regarding alleged discriminatory behaviour."

If the charges are proven, Serbia face UEFA sanctions. As recently as November, they were ordered to play a Euro 2024 qualifier in a partially closed stadium as punishment for racist behaviour in a previous game. The original sanction was for it to be behind closed doors, but an appeal was partially successful.