Nats accused of bringing politics into Euro 2024 by holding a pro-indy march

A NATS group was accused of bringing politics into Euro 2024 by holding a pro-indy march just hours after Scotland play their first game.

Campaigners Germans for Scottish Independence have organised a rally in Munich for June 15, when thousands of Tartan Army footsoldiers will still be in the area.

Steve Clarke’s men kick off the footie tournament the day before with a match against the host nation in the city’s Allianz Arena.

And critics have hit out over the apparent attempt to politicise the squad’s big moment.

Hamish Husband, of the Association of Tartan Army Clubs, said: “I’m stunned anybody would think of this. There’s enough politics in football as it is.

“We’re going over there as one nation — and that’s Scotland.

“Football marches are for fans on the way to the stadium.”

And Scottish Lib Dems sports spokesman Neil Alexander said: “I am going to be a loud and proud Scotland fan during the Euros — and I’m not interested in anything which politicises the team’s efforts.

“Around 200,000 are going out to Germany to support them.

“Every fan should feel welcome and a part of what’s going to be an amazing few weeks of football.”

He added: “I am worried that this event goes against the spirit of that — so I would urge organisers to rethink their plans.”

Germans for Scottish Independence said they’ll “take advantage” of the opening game between Scotland and Germany.

Their aims are to “raise awareness of the independence campaign in Germany and show our colleagues in Scotland our support”.

They have encouraged Scots and supporters to meet at Munich’s Freiheit Square at 2pm.

They will then walk more than two miles to the Karlsplatz for a rally with “music and speeches”.

Cops in Bavaria said they have held “cooperation meetings” with organisers and other authorities.

A spokesman added: “Police will supervise the gathering.”

Germans for Scottish Independence were approached for comment.