UEFA is set to bolster security measures at UEFA Euro 2024 following multiple pitch invasions during Portugal’s 3-0 victory over Turkey, where fans attempted to take pictures with Cristiano Ronaldo. Ronaldo was visibly upset as six different spectators breached the pitch, causing the match to be halted several times. In response, UEFA has announced that security at stadiums will be intensified for the remainder of the tournament.
What did UEFA say?
A UEFA spokesperson stated, “Safety and security in the stadium, on the pitch, and at team facilities are the ultimate priority for UEFA, DFB, and EURO 2024 GmbH. To this end, additional safety measures will be deployed in the stadiums to further meet the requirements of the tournament and to prevent such incidents.” The spokesperson added that for security reasons, they could not disclose specific measures but emphasized that any pitch incursion would result in expulsion from the stadium, a ban from all tournament matches, and a formal criminal complaint for trespass.
Pitch invasions have been a recurring issue in football, and players should be safeguarded against such disruptions during matches.
Cristiano Ronaldo heckled by pitch invaders
Ronaldo, initially accommodating by posing for a selfie with the first invader, grew increasingly irritated as more spectators approached him. As the team emerged from the tunnel before the start of the second half, a young fan slipped past security and dashed onto the pitch. Ronaldo smiled as he posed with the young admirer. Following the selfie, security led the young fan away, as the entire stadium erupted in applause and cheering.
But this was not the end. Minutes later, in the second half, another supporter decided to emulate the first. He, too, skirted security to get into the field and take a photo with the celebrity. But this time, Ronaldo was not pleased. He became irritated and expressed his displeasure, requesting security to remove the supporter from the pitch.
Ronaldo look to open scoring chart in Euro 2024
Despite the disturbances, Ronaldo remains focused on his team’s success at Euro 2024. The Al-Nassr striker, who has yet to score in the tournament, displayed his team-first mentality by unselfishly assisting Bruno Fernandes in the match against Turkey. With Portugal already through to the round of 16, Ronaldo will be looking to find the back of the net in their final group stage game against Georgia.
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