May 11 – The UEFA Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body has punished the football federations of Montenegro (FSCG) and Serbia (FSS) for racism and discriminatory behaviour by fans of both countries.
The incidents took place during the European Championships qualifier between the two teams on March 27 in Podgorica. Serbia won 2-0 in front of 10,000 spectators.
Montenegro has been fined a total of €47,500. €20,000 is due to discriminatory behaviour by supporters, and the rest of the fine relates to the letting off of fireworks, blocking of public passageways and locked emergency gates of the stadium in Podgorica. For Montenegro’s next home match, the FSCG must also close part of the stadium (at least 2,000 seats).
This is not the first time Montenegro has been punished for racism. Four years ago, UEFA punished Montenegro to play behind closed doors after England players were racially abused during a European Championships qualifier.
Serbia’s punishment is even more serious. Serbia’s FA has been fined €50,000 and will play its next home game against Hungary behind closed doors in September.
The Serbian Football Federation is also banned from selling tickets to its fans for the next away match, which is against Bulgaria on June 20 in Razgrad.
Contact the writer of this story, Alexander Krassimirov, at moc.l1715295114labto1715295114ofdlr1715295114owedi1715295114sni@o1715295114fni1715295114