England fans ignore police orders by singing controversial chant ahead of Euro 2024 opener
England fans ignored strict police orders to not sing a controversial chant at Euro 2024.
England kick off their campaign in Group C against Serbia at the Veltins Arena in Gelsenkirchen on Sunday.
There have been warnings of 500 Serbian hooligans being present, leading to the fixture being upgraded to "high risk" and the introduction of a rare rule whereby only 2.8 per cent alcohol will be served.
The one-time change has been done in a bid to crack down on violence.
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German police also told England supporters to not sing the offensive '10 German bombers' song, which refers to casualties in World War 2.
To the tune of 'She'll Be Coming Round The Mountain when she comes' and nursery rhyme 'Ten Green Bottles', it contains the lyrics: "There were 10 German bombers in the air" and "but the RAF from England shot them down".
As per The Telegraph, chief of police Peter Both said: "That's what I would say to them: Don't be a d***. If they sing a song like this, I can't change it.
"It's not punishable in Germany. I hope that all the other peaceful and law-abiding fans say to them: 'Stop it.'
"I know, and all people in Germany know, there is a long-lasting sporting rivalry between England and Germany. But it's important for me to say it's only a sporting one.
"Our countries have been, and remain, allies for over seven decades."
Yet the orders have not been obeyed. Multiple videos posted on social media show fans partaking in the chant.
One shared by Matt Lawton of The Times captured fans congregating in a street in Dusseldorf and singing the shot, as well as throwing inflatable planes.
Accompanied by a video, he wrote: "No trouble here in Dusseldorf but our German hosts are being treated to this."
Police have promised to take action against anyone who sings the chant or performs Nazi salutes, with heavy fines a potential punishment.
The chant was heard during England's friendly victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina at St James' Park.
Josh Lawless