China warns fans to avoid World Cup hooligans

Polish border guards and police arrest a fake hooligan during training exercises in preparation for the World Cup. China has warned its football fans to stay away from hooligans and avoid drinking establishments at the World Cup in Germany.

China has warned its football fans to stay away from hooligans and avoid drinking establishments at the World Cup in Germany.

Fans should avoid carrying large sums of money and be aware of their personal safety at all times, according to guidelines posted on the foreign ministry's website.

"Stay away from 'soccer hooligans', leave football stadiums immediately after matches are over and avoid staying in areas were many soccer fans gather, especially around bars," the recommendations said.

The website said "a large number" of Chinese fans are expected to attend the World Cup despite China's failure to qualify for the tournament.

Groups of hooligans from around the globe are reported to be preparing a "third world war" for football's showcase event, which Germany is hosting from June 9 to July 9.

In an apparent reference to the routine disrespect for traffic regulations in China, the foreign ministry also urged fans to respect German road rules.

Fans "should respect traffic regulations and pay attention to traffic safety," the recommendations said.

"Pedestrians should cross streets at crosswalks and respect traffic lights and traffic signs."

The ministry did not say how many Chinese would be traveling to Germany for the World Cup, but following 25 years of robust economic growth more and more Chinese are traveling overseas each year.