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EURO 2024: German Authorities Slash Alcohol Strength for England's 'High-Risk' Euro 2024 Opener with Serbia.
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As the opening Euro 2024 match between England and Serbia looms, German authorities are implementing strict measures to ensure safety, with supporters limited to low-alcohol beer.
Typically served with a 4.8% strength, the full-strength Bitburger Premium lager inside the Arena AufSchalke will be replaced by a 2.5% alternative. Fans will also be restricted to purchasing two pints at a time.
Over 1,000 police officers are set to be deployed in Gelsenkirchen for a major security operation, particularly concerning potential disturbances between supporters. The match has been categorized as "high risk" by German authorities.
In addition to the alcohol restrictions, fans will not be permitted to drink alcohol in the city's main square, Heinrich-Konig-Platz, with enforcement measures in place for violators.
However, alcohol consumption will be allowed in the city's bars and in a designated fan zone for England supporters at the racecourse.
This precautionary approach follows concerns about the potential presence of around 500 Serbian hooligans at the match.
Serbian football has grappled with issues related to far-right nationalist groups, with incidents of racist behavior and violence reported in recent matches.
Despite the restrictions, an estimated 40,000 England fans are anticipated to travel to Gelsenkirchen, including some without tickets who seek to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the event.
England's history at major tournaments, coupled with the chaotic scenes witnessed during the Euro 2020 final at Wembley, underscores the need for heightened security measures.
While previous World Cups in Russia and Qatar experienced relatively few incidents, the localized nature of Euro 2024 in Germany is expected to draw larger numbers of traveling fans, necessitating increased vigilance.