An (un)usual night in strefa kibica

Strefa kibica, the fan zone in the heart of Warsaw. It is the day of the second semi-final, the match between Italy and Germany which is played just two kilometres from the zone, in the brand-new stadion narodowy (national stadium) on the other side of the river Vistula. We have the chance to talk to Łukasz Cudny, co-ordinator of the many young volunteers working in the strefa kibica. He gives an insight into the organisation of the zone and its tough regulations, most of which are imposed by UEFA in order to serve the interests of its sponsors.

Łukasz Cudny is interviewed by our participant, Jowita Omiecińska,
and filmed by Adam Symonowicz

Towering high above the fan zone: Pałac Kultury i Nauki (Palace of Culture and Science), the most prominent remnant of the Stalinist period of urban redevelopment in Warszawa. Opinions about this landmark building are divided, to say the least: you hate it or you love it. Either way, you will see it from almost everywhere in the city centre, and likewise the gigantic UEFA adverts covering its façades on all sides.

The Palace of Culture and Science

The fan zone itself is ready for today's highlight. Crowds of spectators are flocking in during the late afternoon and early evening, mostly Polish middle-class urban citizens, with only few Italian or German visitors strewn in here and there. According to the speaker, the crowd totals 47,000 people, which is less than half the number which watched the Poland-Russia match ten days before. The atmosphere is one of light entertainment and joy. Those who want to have a beer need to go for a Carlsberg, the only brand available at the huge bars (which are nonetheless crowded with thirsty customers).

Before the match Italy-Germany, the socialist architecture
of Marszałkowska street as a backdrop

It turns out that, on a mild summer evening, central Warszawa can have an almost Mediterranean atmosphere. People are happy and enjoy themselves, especially those supporting the Italy team. They cheer twice, loudly. Then we all go home.

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Die Begegnung "Das Spiel dauert 90 Minuten - und dann?" wird ermöglicht durch die finanzielle Unterstützung des Deutsch-Polnischen Jugendwerks (DPJW/PNWM) im Rahmen des Wettbewerbs "Treffpunkt übermorgen - Spotkajmy się pojutrze".