Tensions flare at Euro 2024 as Serbia threatens to withdraw from the tournament. This bold move comes in response to hateful chants during the Albania-Croatia match, where fans reportedly chanted, “Kill, kill, kill the Serb.”
Jovan Surbatovic, General Secretary of the Football Association of Serbia (FSS), demanded immediate action from UEFA. Speaking to Serbian broadcaster RTS, Surbatovic stated Serbia would push for sanctions, even if it meant pulling out of the competition.
“These chants are unacceptable. We will seek justice from UEFA, even if it costs us our place in the tournament,” Surbatovic declared.
UEFA has launched an investigation into the incident. They have appointed an ethics and disciplinary inspector to probe the “potential racist and/or discriminatory conduct by supporters.” Additionally, the investigation will look into the alleged inappropriate behavior of Albanian player Mirlind Daku, who reportedly incited the offensive chants against Serbs and Macedonians.
Despite the controversy, Serbia’s head coach Dragan Stojkovic downplayed the issue. Following Serbia’s 1-1 draw with Slovenia, Stojkovic focused solely on the game.
“Please ask me about the game. For me, this is not important. I’m just focusing on the game,” he told reporters. “Honestly, I didn’t read anything. Believe me or not, but it’s true.”
This incident revives old wounds from the 1990s conflicts in the former Yugoslavia, where wars in Bosnia, Croatia, and Slovenia left deep scars. Serbia’s historical tensions with Albania and Croatia further complicate the situation.
Serbia, making their first European Championship appearance since Yugoslavia’s dissolution, started their campaign with a 1-0 loss to England. As they navigate this controversy, their participation in Euro 2024 hangs in the balance.
