During the afternoon in the center of Prague, on Rytířská Street, a clash occurred between Fiorentina and West Ham United supporters at a bar. As a result, three individuals sustained injuries, and the police apprehended 16 suspects. Jan Rybanský, the spokesman for the Prague police, provided an update on the situation, stating that 12 people had initially been detained. Tonight, the two football clubs from Italy and England are scheduled to compete against each other in the final of the European Conference League at Eden Stadium.
Rybanský reported that West Ham fans were injured, and Fiorentina supporters also assaulted a police officer. In a tweet, the spokesman stated, “We have restricted the personal freedom of 16 individuals, and we are currently investigating the entire incident.” A video shared on Facebook showed fans throwing chairs, some of which ended up in the street along with a table.
Jana Poštová, a spokeswoman for Prague’s ambulance service, confirmed that three people were treated after the brawl on Rytířská Street. Two of them did not require hospitalization, while the third was taken to the hospital with minor head injuries, according to the spokeswoman.
The fan who attacked the police officer is suspected of committing violence against a law enforcement official, stated Rybanský. The spokesman mentioned that no other incidents had been recorded prior to the final match of the day. However, he did mention that two smoke bombs were set off in Old Town Square and cautioned about potential issues with traffic and public transportation. At around 5:30 p.m., complications arose near Muzeum metro station, where Italian fans had gathered to board the metro.
The final match began at 9:00 p.m. and concluded around 11:00 p.m. Following the earlier incident, Rybanský reported that the police did not encounter any further disturbances of public order. However, he emphasized that they remained vigilant, as security measures were still in place. Hundreds of police officers from various units, including riot police, crime police, traffic police, and foreign police, were deployed to maintain order and security. The anti-conflict team was also on standby.
To prevent potential encounters between supporters of the two clubs, fan zones were designated. West Ham fans could gather at Letná Plain opposite Sparta’s stadium, while Fiorentina supporters had a designated area at the Exhibition Grounds.
In the evening, several social media posts highlighted the piles of rubbish left behind by fans in Old Town Square. Deputy Mayor Jana Komrsková (Pirates) acknowledged the prompt cleaning of the mess and commended Prague Services and the Technical Administration of Communications of the capital for their efficient work.
