UEFA Appeals Body to discuss PSV case

UEFA's Appeals Body meets in Nyon, Switzerland, on Friday for deliberations in a case involving the conduct of fans of the Dutch club PSV Eindhoven at a recent UEFA Champions League match.

Improper conduct
PSV were fined €20,500 by the UEFA Control and Disciplinary Body earlier this month for the improper conduct of their fans, including racist abuse and the throwing of missiles at Arsenal FC striker Thierry Henry, during the match between the two clubs in Eindhoven on 25 September.

Further investigation
Subsequently, and in accordance with its own regulations, UEFA lodged an appeal against the decision taken by the Control and Disciplinary Body, an independent body under the UEFA statutes, expressing the opinion that the case required further investigation.

Power to appeal
With regard to the power of appeal, Article 50 of the UEFA disciplinary regulations states: "Those concerned and UEFA have the power to appeal." The official reports did not mention the incidents at the match, and the Control and Disciplinary Body said that Arsenal did not submit a complaint or any evidence of alleged racist conduct by Dutch supporters.

Initial verdict
However, UEFA Chief Executive Gerhard Aigner, in explaining the reasons for UEFA's subsequent appeal, said that he was empowered to intervene if there were grounds to believe that the initial verdict was not entirely appropriate.

Disciplinary inspector
A disciplinary inspector was therefore appointed to prepare for appeal proceedings. Under Article 30 of the UEFA disciplinary regulations, disciplinary inspectors represent UEFA in disciplinary proceedings, and can lodge appeals or cross-appeals. Mr Aigner also asked for written evidence from all of the parties concerned.

Combating racism
UEFA is currently involved in a widespread drive to deal with racism and intolerance within the game. "Whatever the outcome of the appeal process in this particular case, UEFA is determined to do all that we can to combat racism in European football," said Mr Aigner. "To succeed, a partnership is needed with commitment from everyone involved in the game on our continent. We all have a responsibility to act and to set the ground rules for the future."

Partizan appeal
In another case on Friday, the Appeals Body will hear an appeal lodged by Yugoslavian club NK Partizan against the four-match ban handed down to coach Nenad Bjekovic for improper conduct towards the referee, and a two-match suspension for player Dejan Zivkovic for his dismissal, both during the UEFA Cup match against Sporting Clube de Portugal on 3 October.