Euro 2016: Hollande warns unions against disrupting football championship

"I will be paying close attention tomorrow and if decisions need to be made, they will be made," said the French president a day ahead of the opening of the month-long football extravaganza. Transport workers have threatened to extend their strike to routes that connect the stadiums.

"Rest assured that public services will be provided and that the state will assume its full responsibilities," Hollande told reporters, according to AFP.

France is set to roll out industrial reforms including overhauling its labour laws and rail workers are protesting against the proposal. Their strike could directly affect the first match between France and Romania on Friday (10 June) at Paris's Stade de France stadium. The rail strike entered the ninth day on Thursday, 9 June.

In addition to that, visitors arriving for the tournament have been greeted by the stench of piling garbage. Though garbage collection workers were late to join the protest against the government, their participation is likely to badly dent the image of the host.

Speaking to reporters, French Prime Minister Manuel Valls said: "I would like the Euro to be a beautiful showcase for France. France is ready to host the Euro, and everyone must show responsibility and patriotism at this time."

Valls has threatened to break up the protests if it becomes necessary. The government's appeal over the unpopular labour reforms has so far had little impact on marching students and trade unionists. Protesters have not yet backed down and say they would press on with their demands despite the tournament.

France's Sports Minister Thierry Braillard has also pleaded with the protesters by saying: "While there are times when strikes can take place, we are now on the eve of an event during which they are going to prevent some fans from getting to the stadium. That's just not normal."