Benidorm is bracing for potential chaos as thousands of England and Scotland fans flock to the Spanish resort for cheap World Cup breaks, sparking police fears of clashes
Brits’ favourite Spanish eldorado is bracing for chaos. Benidorm is reportedly bracing itself for thousands of England and Scotland fans who are expected to flock there.
The Spanish resort seemingly offers cheap World Cup breaks. However, this has reportedly sparked police fears of clashes, as well as a potential repeat of the disorder that occured during the Euro 2024.
Moreover, rival supporters will likely watch matches side-by-side while downing bargain pints. With flights and bookings from the UK soaring, bars are also reportedly ramping up security.
Additionally, riot cops are said to be on standby to prevent a repeat of previous football trouble. With pints selling for as low as just £2.60 and package deals cheaper than a single £523 match ticket, hordes of Three Lions and Tartan Army supporters are expected to pack out bars and terraces.
The massive migration from the north has reportedly been sparking concerns of rowdy scenes as both sets of fans cheer on their teams side-by-side. After trouble flared during Euro 2024, local police are taking no chances this time.
Authorities are consequently setting up a special co-ordination centre and putting riot cops on standby, The Sun reported. Anna Cladigo, of City Sports Bar, said: “We will have plenty of security.
“We know England and Scotland fans are rivals. We will have a hotline straight to the police and they will be here within two minutes if needed.”
Coolaude Sports Bar boss Antonio Sevilla warned: “There are problems on the strip when people drink too much, and we know many fans are coming.”
Flight prices from the UK have already soared, with travel site Kiwi.com reporting bookings from Scotland to Spain in June and July have more than doubled, as per The Sun.
“England and Scotland fans are travelling to Spain for a more affordable holiday with a great atmosphere,” said a spokesperson. Martin Riddell, of the Association of Tartan Army Clubs, said: “We’ll take about 10,000 fans to the World Cup but some people will go to Spain instead.”
Meanwhile, police insist they’re ready for anything, with a spokesman for Alicante province adding: “We will have enough officers on duty. We are experienced at managing tourists in our area.”
During Euro 2024, England fans in Benidorm were reportedly involved in clashes with locals. There was also an incident where a local driver attempted to drive a car through a group of England supporters who were singing a controversial chant following England’s match against Slovenia, the Daily Star previously reported.
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