UEFA Dishes Out Europa League Racism Sanctions
In a statement, UEFA said that it had ordered the partial closure of the stadiums of Georgian club Chikhura Sachkhere, Hungary's Debrecen, Romanian side Steaua Bucharest, and Slovenians Maribor where multiple incidents of racism were reported last season.
European football's governing body UEFA on Tuesday said that it had imposed a raft of sanctions after racist incidents in the Europa League.
In a statement, UEFA said that it had ordered the partial closure of the stadiums of Georgian club Chikhura Sachkhere, Hungary's Debrecen, Romanian side Steaua Bucharest, and Slovenians Maribor. (India to play Palestine in two friendly matches)
The one-game penalties will apply to the four clubs' next European competition matches. (Xavi Hernandez announces retirement from international football)
The incidents occurred during their Europa League second qualifying round home matches last month. (Italian veteran Alessandro del Piero plays down retirement talks)
Chikhura Sachkhere drew 0-0 with Turkish side Bursaspor, while Debrecen beat North Irish club Cliftonville 2-0.
Steaua Bucharest defeated Norwegian visitors Stroemsgodset 2-0, while Maribor notched up the same score against Bosnian side Zrinjski.
"The fight against racism is a high priority for UEFA. The European governing body has a zero-tolerance policy towards racism and discrimination on the pitch and in the stands," UEFA said.