Euro 2024: Are Fans Allowed to Smoke Marijuana at Stadiums in Germany? Fact Check

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Earlier this week the Euro 2024 kicked off in Germany, a highly anticipated tournament where top European teams vie for continental supremacy. As thousands of fans flock to various host cities across Germany, security forces are on high alert to ensure the tournament proceeds smoothly.

In a surprising twist, recent reports suggested that German City Gelsenkirchen's police had encouraged fans to opt for marijuana over alcohol to maintain a more relaxed atmosphere during matches at the stadiums.

This unconventional advice reportedly came ahead of the Serbia-England match scheduled for Sunday at the Veltins-Arena, home of Schalke 04.

According to El Norte de Castilla, a spokesman from the Gelsenkirchen Police recommended that Serbian and English supporters avoid excessive alcohol consumption and consider using cannabis instead, positing that marijuana use leads to less aggression compared to alcohol.

This claim quickly made headlines, raising questions and sparking debates about the legality and appropriateness of such advice. MyKhel made a fact check on the matter and here's what we found.

Soon after the news spread on social media and other platforms, the Gelsenkirchen Police swiftly debunked these claims, clarifying their stance over the use of marijuana. Police commander Peter Both issued a statement emphasising the misinterpretation of their position.

"The police will ensure the safety of fans during the European Football Championship and will respond to aggressive groups who act as troublemakers, regardless of intoxicants," Both stated, showing their commitment to maintaining order irrespective of the substances involved.

Further, an official statement from the Gelsenkirchen Police was posted online, explicitly confirming that the consumption of marijiuana within fan zones and stadiums is strictly prohibited. This statement aimed to dispel any misconceptions and reinforce the existing regulations concerning substance use during the tournament.

The initial erroneous reporting highlights the sensitivity and complexity of managing large-scale international events like Euro 2024. With fans from diverse backgrounds and cultures converging in Germany, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all remains a top priority for the authorities.