FIFA fines Spain over racist taunting of England players

Zurich:

World soccer's governing body has fined Spain's national federation 100,000 Swiss francs (US$87,000) for racist taunting by its fans during a match against England. FIFA spokesman Andrea Herren yesterday said the Spanish federation also was warned against a repeat of such fan behavior at future matches. Spanish soccer has been hit by a string of racist incidents. The taunts, aimed at the black players on England's soccer team, spoiled Spain's impressive 1-0 victory in the November 17 friendly. While the Spaniards outplayed England for long periods at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium, their fans taunted Shaun Wright-Phillips and Ashley Cole whenever they had the ball. Ahead of yesterday's decision, FIFA President Sepp Blatter said "racism again is rearing its ugly head in society and in football. FIFA is determined to stamp out racism." (AP)