English fans detained in Leipzig after clashes ahead of Conference League final

Several English fans were detained by German police after clashes broke out in Leipzig on Wednesday, May 27, ahead of Crystal Palace’s UEFA Conference League final against Rayo Vallecano at the Red Bull Arena.

Videos circulated on social media showing rival groups fighting and throwing chairs and glass bottles outside an Irish bar in the city. Many people were seen falling to the ground as the violence erupted, while others fled the scene. A group of men in black T-shirts arrived shortly before the fighting began, after which police in riot gear moved in to separate the groups.

A Metropolitan Police spokesperson confirmed that German authorities informed them those involved were being held on suspicion of an alleged breach of the peace, which constitutes a criminal offence under German law. Police measures applied to the group included detention, identity checks, searches, and full-body photographs.

The disturbance cast a shadow over what is a historic occasion for Crystal Palace, who are appearing in a major European final for the first time. A victory over Rayo Vallecano would make them the third English club to lift the Conference League trophy, following West Ham’s triumph in 2023 and Chelsea’s in 2025.

Manager Oliver Glasner, who is leaving the club at the end of the season, has spoken publicly about his desire to secure a Europa League berth for Palace as a parting gift — something a win on Wednesday would guarantee, with the Conference League title carrying automatic qualification for next season’s competition.

Kick-off at the Red Bull Arena is scheduled for 8 pm BST.