Several injured as Greenpeace protestor parachutes into Germany-France Euro 2020 match
“Several people” are being treated in hospital for injuries caused by a Greenpeace protestor who parachuted into Allianz Arena before France’s victory over Germany in their Euro 2020 game in Munich.
UEFA, European football’s governing body, said “law authorities will take the necessary action” for what it called a “reckless and dangerous” act.
Debris fell on to the pitch and into the stands when the parachutist got tangled in spider wires carrying an overhead camera, while France head coach Didier Deschamps was seen ducking out of the way of a large piece of equipment near the dugout.
The activist had the words “Kick out oil Greenpeace” written on his parachute.
The man landed heavily on the pitch and was given medical attention before being escorted away by security.
In a statement Greenpeace said: “We sincerely apologise to the two people injured and to fans and players alike.
“This protest was never intended to disrupt the game or hurt people.
“We hope that everyone is OK and that no one was seriously injured.
“Greenpeace actions are always peaceful and non-violent. Unfortunately, not everything went according to plan. Technical difficulties forced the pilot to an emergency landing in the stadium.”
UEFA said the “inconsiderate act could have had very serious consequences for a huge number of people attending.
“The staging of the match was fortunately not impacted by such a reckless and dangerous action, but several people were injured nonetheless.”
Greenpeace’s German Twitter account confirmed that the stunt was a protest against tournament sponsor Volkswagen, demanding an end to the sale of petrol and diesel cars.
When the match got under way it was won 1-0 by France after a Mats Hummels own goal in the first half.
Additional reporting by the Press Association.
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