Slovakian and English FAs punished
Tuesday, December 17, 2002
Article summary
Both the Slovakian and English FAs received fines after trouble at their UEFA EURO 2004™ qualifier.
Article body
The Slovak Football Association (SFS) has received a €40,750 fine following the racist behaviour of Slovakian supporters and the general disorder that marred Slovakia's UEFA EURO 2004™ qualifying match against England.
Fines for both parties
The UEFA Control and Disciplinary Body decided to act against the racist chanting and lack of organisation and order during the Group 7 qualifier in Bratislava on 12 October, won 2-1 by England. The English Football Association (FA) was also fined €13,600 after visiting England supporters became involved in crowd disturbances.
Mitigating factors
In making its ruling, the UEFA body took into account the fact this was a first incident of its kind at a Slovakia match, and that the SFS had expressed deep regret, issued personal apologies to the parties concerned and was now active in the campaign against racism. Likewise, the FA's efforts to organise England supporters for away matches were also acknowledged.
Appeal may be lodged
An appeal may be lodged against these decisions by midnight on Saturday 21 December. All other decisions taken today by the UEFA Control and Disciplinary Body will be announced late tomorrow afternoon.
