In the hours leading up to the UEFA Europa Conference League final match between Chelsea and Real Betis, Wrocław has witnessed troubling scenes of violence among fans. Disturbing footage emerged showing incidents of aggression, prompting a significant police presence in the city to manage the situation. This response is not only due to the excitement surrounding the match but also to the anticipated attendance of tens of thousands of supporters.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk urged calm and announced firm actions by law enforcement as a response to these events. In an interview with Interia Sport, Wrocław police commisioner Przemysław Ratajczyk reassured local fans and residents, stating, “We are well-prepared to ensure safety at the highest level.” He confirmed that, so far, there have been several incidents reported, including three in the evening and one in the afternoon, but emphasized that security forces are ready to intervene swiftly during any illegal actions.
The police are bolstered by support from over a hundred officers from across Poland, aiming to secure the event effectively. As of the latest reports, 28 foreign fans have been arrested during the clashes, with no involvement noted from Polish supporters in such acts of violence. Commissioner Ratajczyk noted that the number of apprehensions could rise as the situation evolves.
The police strategy focuses on rapid response to potential conflicts, with officers positioned to prevent escalation. They have encouraged the public to report any dangerous situations to nearby police patrols or to call emergency services.
As the final approaches, the atmosphere has been described as manageable, and police forces remain on high alert to ensure the safety of both fans and local residents during and after the match. The Europa Conference League final is set to kick off at 21:00 and will be broadcast live on Polsat Sport and other platforms.
This event highlights the necessity of maintaining safety amidst the passion of football. While tensions have risen, the proactive measures taken by law enforcement can lead to a more secure environment for fans to enjoy the match.