Downpour of Plastic Beer Cups at Euro 2024: Spectators, Athletes, and TV Commentators Drenched in Waste
Over the first 12 days of the European soccer tournament, a peculiar issue has emerged: spectators chucking plastic cups filled with beer onto the field or at fellow spectators.
During the match between Croatia and Italy on Monday, an avalanche of cups descended from the stands as Italian players were corner kicking, and from the upper tiers of the Red Bull Arena onto the lower stands during goal celebrations.
Some players have taken this in stride, such as France's Antonie Griezmann, who shared a chuckle with Netherlands supporters who were chucking cups near him at the corner flag. However, other players have been less amused, clearing debris from the pitch with anything but cheer.
Footage from Monday's match showed Italy fans in the lower tiers venting their frustration at their Croatian counterparts in the upper stands after being drenched in beer, with journalists also getting caught in the crossfire.
The commentary team at the game in Leipzig, Jonathan Pearce and former England international Danny Murphy, provided a colorful account of the chaotic scene during their live broadcast.
"We're getting drenched," Murphy remarked, while Pearce added, "We're absolutely soaked up here."
Pearce later commented, "This cannot continue, the cups being thrown from the stands. Players are experiencing plastic cups being thrown at the pitch, and it's happening more and more."
"I spoke with some Germans yesterday, and they stated they won't allow it to continue. They will prevent people from drinking," Pearce continued.
UEFA, soccer's European governing body, stated that its disciplinary committee will "wait for reports" from the Italy-Croatia match "before considering any action." Regarding the future handling of beer cup throwing, UEFA had no new information.
As reported by The Athletic, spectators must pay a €3 ($3.22) deposit for a cup, in addition to a minimum €6 ($6.44) for the beer itself.
Consuming alcohol on the terraces is uncommon in world soccer. In the UK, it is strictly forbidden, with drinking only allowed on the concourses.
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Despite the mandatory deposit and increased beer prices, fans continue to hurl plastic cups onto the field, causing disruption during matches.
The issue of audience members throwing beer cups at the pitch during the Euro 2024 tournament has become a significant concern for both athletes and commentators alike.
