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Tensions flared in Wroclaw, Poland, as fans of Chelsea and Real Betis clashed in multiple incidents ahead of the UEFA Conference League final, prompting police intervention and resulting in the arrest of 28 individuals.
The most significant confrontation occurred on Wednesday afternoon in the city's historic Market Square, where hundreds of fans from both clubs were involved in violent exchanges. Polish police, supported by British liaison officers, acted swiftly to contain the unrest. Although reports initially suggested that water cannons were deployed, Wroclaw City Hall later clarified that while they were prepared, “the situation did not escalate to a level that required their deployment.”
“The strong and visible presence of police, including British liaison officers and negotiators, was effective in de-escalating tensions,” the city hall stated, confirming that order had since been restored. The match at Stadion Wroclaw went ahead as planned, with a full capacity crowd of 41,000 and no further disturbances reported. Additionally, around 5,500 fans watched from a designated fan zone.
Authorities estimated that approximately 70,000 fans had arrived in the south-western Polish city for the final, a figure that includes both ticket holders and supporters enjoying events throughout the city.
Chelsea clinched a 4-1 victory in the third-tier European competition later that evening, but the build-up was marred by outbreaks of violence. On Tuesday night, Solny Square was the scene of several clashes, where riot police used tear gas to break up fights lasting around five minutes. Flying chairs and glass bottles were reported, with seven arrests made—including four Spanish nationals. Minor property damage occurred, though no serious injuries were confirmed.
“For the rest of the night, police will remain on duty in full strength,” Wroclaw City Hall added, signalling a continued heavy security presence throughout the evening.
Lower Silesian Police released a statement confirming, “At this moment, we can confirm the arrest of 28 participants in the incident. No one will escape legal responsibility and the police will react decisively and appropriately to the situation.”
Tensions persisted into Wednesday, as additional confrontations unfolded and footage circulated on social media showing violent scenes involving fans throwing chairs and engaging in running skirmishes. In one alarming image, a Chelsea supporter was seen being struck by a Betis fan wielding a belt.
“There was an escalation of negative behaviour on the part of both teams that came to Wroclaw for today’s match,” police spokesperson Lukasz Dutkowiak reported. Authorities confirmed that water cannons and stun grenades were used to break up crowds and that efforts were underway to identify further suspects involved in the incidents.
“Zero tolerance for violence on our streets!” Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk posted on X. “I thank the police for their decisive actions against the hooligans in Chelsea and Betis shirts in Wroclaw. We warn you: if necessary, the police will be even more ruthless today!”
Chelsea, who secured a Champions League spot by finishing fourth in the Premier League, were aiming to cap off their season with silverware. Real Betis fans, meanwhile, had travelled in high spirits to witness their club’s first appearance in a European final—a moment many hoped would rival the success of cross-city rivals Sevilla.
While celebrations eventually unfolded inside the stadium, the violent episodes that preceded the match have drawn widespread condemnation and a firm response from Polish authorities.
Featured Image Credit: Unsplash / Ben Koorengevel, X / @RealBetis
