UK fans warned against Moscow antics
Published 10 May, 2008, 05:08
Ahead of the all-English final of the football Champions League in Moscow on May 21, Britain’s Foreign Office has published a set of guidelines for the 40,000 fans flocking to Moscow.
The guidelines show Chelsea and Man United supporters how to behave in a foreign country and draw a picture of a dangerous environment.
“Don’t smoke or drink in Red Square – it’s illegal and you will be arrested! Don’t commit acts of theft – the local authorities will lock you up rather than deport or fine you. Do not do drugs during your visit – the Russian authorities have zero tolerance towards drugs, both hard and soft. Penalties are severe and can result in long-term jail sentences,” say the guidelines.
The rules are also being re-printed in the fanzine published by England’s Football Supporters Federation.
Everyone just hopes that no one will get into trouble and the match will live up to the expectations.
Earlier Russia eased visa procedures for the event.
Fans will only need a match ticket, passport and completed migration card to enter the country for 72 hours.
“We are expecting an invasion of British fans, and of course we would like these people to enjoy their stay in Moscow. That’s why the Russian authorities are creating the most favourable conditions for them,” said Yury Fedotov, Russian Ambassador to the UK.
Russia says the unprecedented decision to cancel visas for British football fans is a goodwill gesture aimed at normalising relations between the two countries.
Meanwhile, about 7,000 fans of Zenit St Petersburg, wishing to travel to Manchester for their team’s game with Scotland’s Rangers on May 14, still have to get a British visa.
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