Racist offences cost Steaua

First time
At its meeting in Nyon, the Appeals Body increased the fine awarded to Steaua to €19,500, and the club have been ordered to play their next UEFA Cup home game in a stadium 250km away. It is the first time a stadium has been closed as a disciplinary measure for a racist act.

Fan misconduct
The original fine of €16,500, imposed on Steaua by the UEFA Control and Disciplinary Committee, was prompted by supporters making "monkey sounds" at Irish side Shelbourne FC's substitute Joseph Ndo in the final minutes of the UEFA Champions League second qualifying round second leg. It was acknowledged at the appeals hearing, on the basis of the evidence submitted, that the club did not do enough against this kind of misconduct among its fans.

Racist conduct
In another case, UEFA's appeal has been rejected by the Appeals Body in a hearing dealing with the racist conduct of Bulgarian team CSKA Sofia's supporters at another Champions League qualifier.

Fine confirmed
European football's governing body had asked the Appeals Body to reconsider the punishment handed down by the Control and Disciplinary Committee which saw CSKA fined €19,500 for the behaviour of their fans during the home leg of the third qualifying round tie against Liverpool FC. The fine has been confirmed.

Racist abuse
It was established that there were various incidences of firecrackers being let off at the stadium, and it was noted that Liverpool striker Djibril Cissé came in for racist abuse during the latter stages of the game. Nevertheless, the panel also took into consideration the improper conduct of the Liverpool player prior to the chants of the crowd.