German police have issued a warning to English fans ahead of the Euros, urging them to smoke cannabis instead of drinking alcohol to prevent potential disturbances, according to recent reports.
Authorities are concerned that intoxicated English and Serbian fans could create issues around the Gelsenkirchen stadium, home of Schalke 04. The Sun reported that Gelsenkirchen police suggested cannabis consumption would make fans “calmer” and “chilled out.”
The Mail Sport previously revealed that the German police had requested the VELTINS Arena to serve low-alcohol beer to Three Lions fans for their opening game against Serbia.
A police spokesperson told The Sun, “It’s no problem for fans to smoke cannabis on the street. If we see a group drinking alcohol and looking aggressive, and another group smoking cannabis, we’ll focus on the group drinking alcohol. Drinking can make someone more aggressive, while cannabis puts people in a chill mood. We want to prevent violence and keep people safe. Our focus will be on fans who are drinking and potentially getting violent.”
In April, Germany legalised cannabis for personal use, allowing the cultivation of up to three plants for private consumption and possession of up to 25 grams (0.88 oz) of cannabis. However, fans are prohibited from smoking cannabis inside the 62,000-seat VELTINS Arena, in fan zones, bars, or city squares during the Euros this summer.
Around 40,000 English fans are expected to travel to support Gareth Southgate’s side, compared to 5,000 to 8,000 Serbian fans.
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