A World Cup screening in Copenhagen ended in violence on Tuesday evening, leaving a 32-year-old Swedish man seriously injured.
The incident happened at the big-screen event at Kulturhuset on Islands Brygge, where fans had gathered to watch football during the tournament.
According to TV 2 Denmark, Copenhagen Police were called to the area at around 9:30 p.m. after reports of disagreements that had developed into violence.
Swedish man taken to hospital
The injured man was taken to hospital for treatment after the assault.
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Copenhagen Police confirmed the case in a written response to TV 2.
“In connection with this, a 32-year-old male Swedish citizen was subjected to violence and subsequently taken to hospital for treatment. He is severely injured. His relatives have been notified,” police said.
The case is now under investigation.
At this stage, police have not publicly confirmed a motive or said whether anyone has been arrested in connection with the assault.
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Second violent incident at the event
The assault is the second violent episode linked to the World Cup screening event on Islands Brygge.
On June 22, a large fight broke out at the same location. According to TV 2, up to 30 people were involved, and two people were injured.
Copenhagen Police have said there is no immediate indication that Tuesday’s assault is connected to the earlier brawl.
That distinction matters, but the repeated incidents have still raised questions about safety around the public screenings.
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Organisers keep current security plan
TV 2 is one of the organisers behind the event, together with the company Fanparks.
Despite the latest incident, TV 2 said the current security set-up will not be changed.
“We are confident and satisfied with the handling by our collaboration partner Fanparks and the authorities in connection with both incidents,” TV 2 said.
The broadcaster added that there is generally a strong focus on security at this type of event, and that the available information does not give reason to change current practices.
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Police to increase presence
Copenhagen Police will, however, be more visible at the next screening.
The force said on Politi Update that officers will be present at Kulturhuset and that patrols will also be active in the surrounding area.
The World Cup event, known as “Fodboldfesten”, is being held on a private fenced-off area on Islands Brygge with free public access. As described by the City of Copenhagen, the screenings began on June 11 and are scheduled to continue until July 19.
For now, the football screenings will continue.
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But after two violent incidents in less than two weeks, the focus around the event has shifted from celebration to security.
