French police only used to gay parades, claims Russian official

A spokesman for Russia's investigative force believes French authorities failed to handle the clashes in Marseille over the weekend because they are used to policing gay pride parades.

Vladmir Markin made the remark on Twitter, adding to the chorus of Russian officials who've thrown their support behind the hooligans - many of whom escaped arrests.

"They are surprised when they see a real man looking like a man should. They’re only used to seeing ‘men’ at gay parades," read the tweet, according to the Guardian.

A Russian Member of Parliament, Igor Lebedev, also tweeted words of praise for the violent acts, saying: "I don't see anything wrong with the fans fighting. Quite the opposite, well done lads, keep it up!"

Supporters of both England and Russia's national teams brawled before and after the Group B match at the Stade Velodrome. Russian fans in particular instigated trouble in one of the stands, charging their English rivals, including women and children.

Some England fans believe the Russians coordinated the attacks, using England kits to disguise themselves.

UEFA has since opened an investigation into the matter, with both countries at risk of being kicked out of the tournament if there are any more acts of violence.