Serbia Threatens Euro 2024 Withdrawal Over Controversial Chants

Serbia has threatened to withdraw from Euro 2024 due to chants exchanged between Croatia and Albania fans during their Wednesday match. Chants referencing the killing of Serbians during the 2-2 draw in Group B prompted UEFA’s investigation. Jovan Surbatovic, the general secretary of the Football Association of Serbia has strongly urged UEFA to impose the harshest sanctions possible.

He expressed his dismay on Serbian state-owned broadcaster RTS, stating, “What occurred is scandalous, and we will insist on UEFA applying sanctions, even if it means considering withdrawal from the competition.” Serbia, currently in Group C began their tournament with a 1-0 loss to England on Sunday. Surbatovic expressed confidence that UEFA would take action after revoking the credentials of Kosovar journalist Arlind Sadiku.

Sadiku had made a nationalist gesture toward Serbian fans, resembling Albania’s national flag eagle. “We will demand that UEFA penalize both federations,” Surbatovic added. “If UEFA fails to act, we will contemplate our next steps.” The Serbian FA has formally contacted UEFA’s general secretary, Theodore Theodoridis denouncing the “shameful joint chanting” and urging swift action.

UEFA has since confirmed it is investigating potential racist or discriminatory behavior by supporters during the Croatia vs. Albania match, as well as alleged inappropriate conduct by Albania forward Mirlind Daku post-game. Serbia expressed frustration at their £12,250 fine for fan misconduct against England, emphasizing their fans’ overall behavior.

Surbatovic emphasized, “We Serbs are gentlemen, and we appeal to our fans to maintain decorum.” Following Serbia’s 1-1 draw against Slovenia in Munich on Thursday, Serbian fans expressed mixed reactions to their FA’s stance. Bico Kruc stressed separating politics from sports while Julian Dragotinovic-Potkovsk said they focus on their own flag and colors. Serbia, now with one point from two matches in Group C, faces a critical juncture as UEFA’s investigation unfolds.