UEFA Tightens Security at Euro 2024 to Curb Pitch Invasions

Security will be increased on field-side at the European Championship to prevent fans from approaching players, following multiple incidents, including attempts to take selfies with Cristiano Ronaldo. UEFA announced new safety measures for the 10 German stadiums hosting the tournament, emphasizing strict consequences for any breaches.

Security measures will be heightened at the European Championship to prevent fans from encroaching onto the field after several incidents, including attempts to take selfies with Cristiano Ronaldo, reached a critical level.

UEFA announced on Sunday that 'additional safety measures will be deployed' across the 10 German venues, although specifics of the new plan were not disclosed. The organization stressed that any pitch invasion constitutes a breach of stadium rules, resulting in expulsion, a tournament-wide ban, and potential criminal prosecution.

The action follows an incident on Saturday, where four fans managed to enter the field during Portugal's 3-0 victory over Turkey, and more tried to do so post-match in Dortmund. Despite the primarily photo-seeking intent of the invaders, the enhanced security aims to protect players from potential harm.

Euro 2024 has witnessed multiple instances of fans invading the pitch, including one who got alarmingly close to Belgium's Kevin De Bruyne during a game against Slovakia in Frankfurt. A recent cash offer by a YouTube presenter is suspected to be the motivation behind several field invasions at the Champions League final in London three weeks ago.

As Euro 2024 progresses past its midway point, with 26 of the 51-game schedule already completed, these increased security measures aim to ensure the safety and integrity of the tournament.

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