Euro 2024 kicked off with high expectations in Munich, a city known for its efficient handling of large football crowds. However, the reality was far from what fans and organizers had hoped for. The transportation system, usually reliable, failed to cope with the increased demand, leading to chaos and confusion outside stadiums.
In Gelsenkirchen, where England played Serbia, similar issues arose. Fans faced gridlock and congestion on the tram service, forcing some to walk long distances to the stadium. After the game, chaos continued at the main train station, with overcrowding and delays causing frustration among supporters.
These transportation woes are not unique to Euro 2024. Germany’s rail network, operated by Deutsche Bahn (DB), has been plagued by delays and disruptions for years. Underfunding and a lack of investment have resulted in an unreliable and overburdened system, making it difficult for fans to travel to games on time.
Despite these challenges, there are still positive aspects of the tournament. The atmosphere in stadiums remains lively, and the quality of football on display is impressive. Volunteers are working hard to ensure a positive experience for fans, and efforts have been made to provide entertainment in fan zones.
However, the transportation issues continue to overshadow the tournament, impacting the overall experience for fans and organizers alike. While improvements are underway, the underlying problems within Germany’s rail network are deep-rooted and will take time to resolve. In the meantime, fans and organizers must navigate the challenges and disruptions to ensure a successful Euro 2024.