FRANKFURT, Germany – As Frankfurt prepares to host England’s European Championship fixture against Denmark, local authorities have issued a stern warning to supporters: do not jump into the river Main.
This advisory may seem unnecessary given the dismal weather that has so far characterized the tournament in Germany. However, it is a precaution based on past events, specifically the 2006 World Cup, when some England fans jumped into the river during their visit to the city. Authorities are keen to ensure that this match passes without incident.
England Fans Urged Not to Jump into River Main Before Denmark Match |
Ensuring a Safe Matchday Environment
In a bid to maintain order, Frankfurt police have been proactive. Following the arrest of a single England fan in Gelsenkirchen last weekend, police reported that “99.7%” of England fans behaved exceptionally well. As of Wednesday, there were no further arrests reported, and local authorities are optimistic that this trend will continue.
Despite this positive start, the upcoming Group C match against Denmark has been categorized as “high risk” by the police. This classification allows for greater resource allocation and a detailed plan of action should any issues arise. However, the focus remains on “de-escalation and communication” to prevent any disturbances.
The Atmosphere in Frankfurt
The atmosphere in Frankfurt, particularly around the fan park that stretches over a kilometer along the banks of the Main, was calm 24 hours before the match. Heavy rain throughout the day minimized public gatherings, though flags of St George began to appear around the city, notably pinned to kebab houses and cafes. Outside Reilly’s Irish bar, a popular spot from the 2006 World Cup, music from Oasis could be heard, although the crowds remained sparse.
Fan Turnout and Logistics
Estimates suggest that between 10,000 and 20,000 England fans might travel to Frankfurt for the match. As Germany’s financial capital, Frankfurt is a hub for fans from various countries, including a substantial number of Scottish fans and a vibrant Turkish community, which celebrated Turkey’s victory over Georgia with a parade on Monday night.
Supporter groups are focused on ensuring a safe experience for fans. The Football Supporters’ Association is awaiting a response from UEFA regarding issues faced by fans at the Schalke stadium on Sunday night. They are also in touch with Spanish and Italian counterparts, whose teams will meet in Gelsenkirchen on Thursday.
Efficient Transport and Matchday Logistics
Frankfurt’s efficient public transport system should mitigate many issues faced in Gelsenkirchen. With one of Europe’s busiest train stations and regular services to the 58,000-capacity Frankfurt Arena, fans will find it easier to navigate the city. Most supporters are already in the city, reducing the need for large-scale travel on matchday. Additionally, the 6 pm local time kickoff should help, as it allows fans to return from the match while public services are still operational and limits pre-match drinking time.
Conclusion
As England prepares to face Denmark, the emphasis in Frankfurt is on maintaining a safe and enjoyable atmosphere. With proactive measures and efficient logistics, authorities and supporter groups are working together to ensure that fans can enjoy the game responsibly.
For ongoing updates and health alerts, visit the official websites of local authorities and follow their social media channels.