Albanian striker Mirlind Daku has been suspended for two matches and fined, while Albania and Croatia face penalties for various infractions at Euro 2024, sparking concerns about racist conduct and threatening Serbia’s participation.
Albanian striker Mirlind Daku has been suspended for two matches at Euro 2024 following his participation in nationalist chants after a 2-2 draw with Croatia in Hamburg. Daku used a megaphone to lead chants against Serbia and North Macedonia, resulting in disciplinary action by UEFA. The governing body cited him for violating general principles of conduct and bringing football into disrepute.
In addition to Daku’s suspension, Albania has been fined a total of €47,500 for various infractions, including lighting fireworks, a pitch invasion, and provocative messaging. Croatia was also fined €28,000 for similar offenses.
These events have prompted further disciplinary reviews by UEFA, particularly about potential racist and discriminatory conduct. The Serbian football federation has lodged formal complaints and threatened to withdraw from the tournament if no actions are taken against Albania and Croatia. Daku’s ban means he will miss Albania’s crucial final group-stage match against Spain on Monday.
