These controls, being conducted in Poland, the Czech Republic, Switzerland, Austria, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg, have been notified to the European Union. German authorities warn that, in addition to land controls, checks will also be carried out in air traffic and ports.

The controls, for now, are being conducted flexibly depending on the situation. German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser stated in a press release that “security is the nation’s top priority during the tournament” and also noted that “starting today, the Federal Police can carry out border checks at all Germany’s borders, aiming primarily to identify and stop violent individuals at an early stage.”

YEARS OF PREPARATION

German security authorities have been preparing for years to ensure safety at the Euro Cup. “General crime, pickpocketing, violent crimes, cyberattacks, disinformation, and terrorist threats are the major threats,” commented from the ministry.

Around 580 foreign police officers will be deployed, both at the International Police Cooperation Center, which will be inaugurated next week, and in joint patrols in the ten host cities. They will also be present in the area of responsibility of the Federal Police, especially in railway transportation.

In addition to the police, thousands of rescue services and other emergency services will be deployed throughout the country, prepared for all scenarios, including heatwaves, torrential rains, or serious emergencies. Over two and a half million people are expected in the stadiums and up to twelve million in the fan zones.