Controversies Dominating Euro 2012

Wednesday sees the start of the semi-final stage of Euro 2012, where it is hoped, no more so than at Uefa towers, that on the field activities will start to be the major headline makers.

One of the biggest fears heading into this year's tournament was that racism would hit the headlines, an issue that has been simmering and has occasionally bubbled over since the opener between Poland and Greece.  However, Europe's football governing body has had to issue a number of fines thus far and has come under quite some flack for some of the amounts contained.

Fined

Perhaps the most trivial fine dished out so far was the £80,000 Arsenal striker Nicklas Bendtner was issued for flashing his 'lucky underpants.'  This of course related to the stunt after his second goal during Denmark's 3-2 group victory over Portugal.  With the words Paddy Power clearly visible on those lucky pants, it was the Irish bookmaker who paid the fine.

The mockery of this, is the near £65,000 Croatia were fined for "the setting-off and throwing of fireworks and the improper conduct of supporters (racist chants, racist symbols)."

Many were quick to add their voice to this issue. Is flashing your pants worse than racism?  Clearly the answer is no, and the way in which Uefa seem to be trying to brush these incidents under the carpet is little short of shocking.  The issue was again brought up yesterday, with news the Croats could be facing more action.  Setting off fireworks and the improper conduct of supporters, the displaying of racist banners and symbols, is the reason behind the latest proceedings.  If found guilty, the action taken against them should be hefty.

Another incident involved Russia and Poland supporters, where it is believed that police had to use water cannons and rubber bullets to help bring back a level of peace.  A statement by the police read:

"More than 183 hooligans were caught by the police because of disorders in Warsaw – firstly during the march to National Stadion, secondly in the Fanzone in Plac Defilad Square. Among the kept persons there are fans of both teams – Russian and Polish.

"There are 10 persons who are injured: 7 Polish, 2 Russians and 1 German – their lives are not in danger concerning the information from the medical services."

The latest involves England, who found themselves on the receiving end following the game with Sweden in the group stage.  A fine of just over £4,000 was issued due to the inappropriate behaviour of fans, who attempted a pitch invasion following the victory.

Take-Over

With many of those countries now eliminated, especially those concerning the more serious incidents, maybe we can now see the football take over the headlines.  The tournament has not exactly been mind blowing and full of tremendous football and standout matches.

Hopefully, as we enter the business end of Euro 2012, the hunger will set in amongst the players and coaches, and some superb performances will be exhibited.