England and Scotland fans warned they'll be hit with hefty fines for drunken acts at Rugby World Cup
While international sport brings many different communities together on the world stage, there has been countless problems involving drunken fans over the years.
Friday (8 September) marked the beginning of the 2023 Rugby World Cup, with hosts France beating New Zealand 27-13 in the opening match.
But today (9 September), the focus turns to England as they face Argentina in their first match of the World Cup at the Stade Vélodrome in Marseille.
Meanwhile, Scotland face South Africa at the same venue on Sunday (10 September).
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More than 100,000 Rugby fanatics are set to descend upon the port city over this weekend, with the public being warned they could face fines for drunken behaviour and noise pollution.
For 'obvious public drunkenness', England and Scotland fans could be whacked with a €150 (£128) fine, while a contribution to noise pollution could land you with a €180 (£150) bill.
Supporters arriving at French airports are being greeted with QR codes with 'some reminders of French law and practical advice'.
The potential fines include 'obvious public drunkenness, consumption of narcotics (€150-450), and using the services of a prostitute (€1,500)'.
The advice also states that fans throwing litter or urinating on public roads is punishable by a fine of €135 (£116) to €375 (£322), with the guidance stating: "The Rugby World Cup is a sporting and festive event. Public peace must nevertheless be respected."
England's much-anticipated clash against Argentina begins at 9pm local time this evening (8pm in the UK), however thousands of fans have already headed to Marseille.
The city's old port is a popular destination spot, with city officials preparing as best they can.
A France 2023 spokesperson told The Guardian: "Like all host cities, security is paramount and working with the local authorities, significant additional security will be present around the major transport hubs, the rugby villages, city centre and stadium to assist and support on match days to aid experience."
Unfortunately, Marseille has historically seen trouble when holding sporting events, as England supporters were involved in scuffles during major football tournaments in France in 1998 and 2016 respectively.
However, when English rugby last visited Marseille for a World Cup quarter-final against Australia back in 2007, they was little to no trouble.
Nonetheless, French authorities have increased their police presence over the weekend as England and Scotland fans come to play.
Callum Jones