UEFA and German authorities are gearing up for an influx of over 50,000 Albania supporters at the upcoming Euro 2024 clash against Italy in Dortmund. This massive traveling contingent will be the largest of any team apart from the host nation. The interest in the game in the Balkan country is so immense that Albanian prime minister Edi Rama has suspended the nation’s parliament for 10 days. This move will allow over 100 ministers and parliamentarians to attend Albania’s Group B fixtures against Italy, Croatia, and Spain.
Overwhelming Presence Expected
Despite Signal Iduna Park, Borussia Dortmund’s home stadium, having a capacity of over 81,000 for club games, it will be limited to 62,000 for Euro 2024 matches. UEFA sources have revealed that a significant number of neutral section tickets for the Group B opener have been purchased by Albanian fans. Even Albanian residents in Germany have eagerly bought tickets to witness their country’s first major tournament appearance since Euro 2016. On the other hand, reigning European champions Italy are predicted to have fewer than 10,000 supporters present, as the majority of tickets have been snapped up by Albanian fans.
Other Countries Also Bringing in Large Numbers
Apart from Albania, over 100,000 Scotland supporters are anticipated to make their way to Germany for the tournament. England, the Netherlands, and Poland are also expected to have a sizable following of traveling fans. In addition, Turkey’s Group F matches against Georgia, Portugal, and Czechia are forecasted to be dominated by Turkish fans. This is due to Germany being home to over 7 million people of Turkish descent.
The upcoming Euro 2024 tournament is shaping up to be a spectacle not just on the field, but also in the stands. With Albania leading the charge with an unprecedented number of supporters, the atmosphere in the stadiums is sure to be electric. The diverse mix of fans from various countries adds to the excitement of the tournament and highlights the passion and fervor that football evokes among supporters worldwide.
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