Strasbourg condemns 'exceptionally long' police checks on fans in Germany
RC Strasbourg has issued a formal complaint after approximately one hundred of its supporters faced lengthy police checks that disrupted their travel to a Europa Conference League match in Germany on Thursday. The club released a statement expressing its regret over the conditions endured by fans journeying to Mainz for the quarter-final first leg, which Strasbourg lost 2-0.
The statement detailed that the checks, conducted by German police, were of an 'exceptionally long' duration and significantly delayed the arrival of a portion of the 2,300 travelling supporters. The club acknowledged the difficult context but stated it was particularly regrettable that such a disruption occurred during a landmark moment in the club's European campaign. Strasbourg also thanked its fans for their patience and calm during the incident.
While the match itself ended in a disappointing defeat for the Alsatian side, the off-pitch controversy overshadowed the sporting result. The club's on-site teams in Mainz worked to organize a march to the stadium for the thousand supporters already present in the city prior to the delays. The incident raises questions about fan treatment during European away fixtures, particularly for clubs with large travelling contingents.
This season marks Strasbourg's first European campaign in over two decades, adding significance to the fan experience for such historic matches. The disruption comes amid a sensitive period for fan-police relations at European football events, with governing bodies emphasizing safety and respect. The club's decision to publicly address the matter underscores its commitment to supporter welfare.
The return leg is scheduled for next week at the Stade de la Meinau, where Strasbourg will aim to overturn the two-goal deficit. The club will hope for an uninterrupted buildup as it seeks to keep its European adventure alive. No further official comment has been made by German police or UEFA regarding the checks at the time of reporting.
