Friday, 14 June, marked the beginning of Euro 2024 in Germany, a highly anticipated tournament that will determine the continental champions for the next four years.
The opening day was highlighted by Germany’s impressive 5-1 victory over Scotland, showcasing ‘Die Mannschaft’s’ determination to secure the title on home soil.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s touching act: assisting a disabled child onto the pitch
Over the next month, thousands of fans from around the globe will converge in various host cities across Germany. Security forces are working diligently to ensure smooth operations and prevent potential tensions or conflicts among fans.
Gelsenkirchen Police have clarified their position
In what seemed an unusual move, it was reported that a spokesman for the police in Gelsenkirchen, known for its association with football through Schalke 04, made an unconventional recommendation ahead of the Serbia-England match scheduled at the Veltins-Arena this coming Sunday.
The spokesperson reportedly advised supporters from Serbia and England to refrain from excessive alcohol consumption and instead suggested the use of cannabis.
The rationale behind this advice, as reported by El Norte de Castilla, is that cannabis promotes a more relaxed atmosphere compared to alcohol, which can potentially lead to aggression.
However, this has prompted a response from the Gelsenkirchen Police, who have distanced themselves from such rhetoric, pointing out that the report came merely as a result of one journalist misquoting their officers.
“The police will ensure the safety of fans during the European Football Championship and will respond to aggressive groups who act as troublemakers, regardless of intoxicants,” Police commander Peter Both stated.
A further statement from the Gelsenkirchen Police was posted online, confirming that smoking cannabis inside fan zones and stadiums was not permitted.
“The Gelsenkirchen police expressly do not encourage football fans to smoke weed. The quote was taken out of context in the interview,” the statement read.
“In principle, people of legal age may carry a maximum of 25 grams of cannabis and smoke it in public. Cannabis may not be consumed in the vicinity of schools, nurseries or other places where children or young people are present.
“This also applies to events where children and young people are expected to be present. For Euro 2024, for example, this means that smoking cannabis is not permitted at fan meeting points, fan zones or on the stadium grounds.”
