Sixty Crystal Palace fans removed from Leipzig city centre after clashes before Conference League final
Supporters linked to Crystal Palace and Rayo Vallecano were involved in violent disturbances in Leipzig on Tuesday night ahead of the UEFA Conference League final.
According to Saxon State Police, around 300 Rayo Vallecano supporters classified as “high risk” gathered in the city centre before clashes broke out between rival groups.
Bottles, beer glasses, chairs and punches were reportedly exchanged as tensions escalated in the streets.
Police intervene as violence escalates
Police intervened after verbal confrontations turned physical, with riot officers deployed to separate the groups and restore order. Authorities said two officers sustained minor injuries during the operation.
A statement from police confirmed that approximately 60 Crystal Palace supporters identified as “known troublemakers” advanced toward the Penguin Ice Bar area, where they allegedly provoked passing Spanish fans.
Federal police surrounded the group and issued orders for them to leave the area.
Two people were arrested during the overnight disturbances, while more than 320 supporters were involved in police operations that lasted until about 3:15am local time.
Reports from ESPN stated the 60 Palace supporters were not expelled from Leipzig entirely and were allowed back into the city centre from 10am on Wednesday.
Peaceful scenes at fan zone despite unrest
Despite the unrest, officials said the designated fan zone at Marktplatz remained peaceful.
Around 2,000 supporters from both clubs reportedly gathered there without incident ahead of the final at the Red Bull Arena.
An estimated 20,000 Palace fans travelled from South London for the match, with roughly 16,000 holding tickets for the club’s first major European final.
Glasner eyes trophy farewell
The match could also mark a significant farewell for Palace manager Oliver Glasner, who is aiming to end his spell at the club with another trophy after previous FA Cup and Community Shield success.