MOSCOW — French authorities said Tuesday they could begin deporting foreign soccer fans after European soccer officials penalized Russia for a wave of clashes that marred the opening matches of the Euro 2016 tournament.

The tougher line came as French riot police detained a busload of Russian supporters near Cannes ahead of a Wednesday game against Slovakia.

Alexander Shprygin, head of a government-backed Russian fan club aboard the bus, said in social media posts that 29 Russians aboard the bus had been told they may be deported following document checks.

The disciplinary body of UEFA, the governing body of European soccer, imposed a $168,400 fine against the Russian Football Union and threatened possible disqualification against the national team.

Russian fans set off fireworks and surged into an English support section during Saturday’s 1-1 draw.

The fighting at Saturday’s match followed battles in Marseilles, where English and Russian fans fought with fists, bottles, and iron rods, leaving several English fans hospitalized. Police used tear gas to disperse the rioters.

Washington Post