With three home nation teams taking part in Euro 2016 next summer, the Foreign & Commonwealth Office is launching ‘Be on the Ball’, a campaign providing advice and information to British football fans.

With hundreds of thousands of supporters expected to travel to France to cheer on their team and enjoy the atmosphere, the FCO is encouraging all fans to plan ahead to enjoy a safe and stress-free tournament.

Working with the consulates in France, the FCO has produced a handy guide for travellers which they can download and keep.

Fans can also sign up to receive the latest country travel advice alerts.

James Duddridge, Foreign & Commonwealth Office minister, said: “Euro 2016 next summer is set to be a landmark in British sport.

“Never before have we seen three home nations teams reach the finals of a European Championships. I am sure this will be reflected in the number of fans making the journey across the Channel.

“We want to make sure that each and every supporter gets their tactics rights and has the best time possible - regardless of their team’s results!

“It’s never too early to begin your preparations, so we’re encouraging fans to do their research and stay up to date with our travel advice.” 

To help travelling fans ‘Be on the Ball’, the FCO has compiled some top tips:

• Check out the latest travel advice and information on the different regions, laws and customs.
• Book accommodation before you arrive. Hundreds of thousands of fans are expected to travel and the demand for beds will be high.
• Get your tickets from a credible source. Selling tickets outside the stadiums is illegal in France.
• Ensure that you have an EHIC, check that it hasn’t expired and understand what it covers.
• Take out comprehensive travel insurance, and ensure it covers you for all the activities you plan to do.
• Get to know the laws of the road. France has different rules to the UK so do your research before hitting the road.
• Look after your passport while travelling; keep it in a safe place and make two copies of it, taking one with you.
• Be responsible. Fans deemed to have drunk too much alcohol may not be allowed into the stadiums.
• There are likely to be long queues to access public transport, stadiums and Fanzones so arrive early. Follow advice and instructions from the local authorities.