English FA handed record fine

The English Football Association were today handed a record fine by UEFA and issued with a final warning as to the future conduct of their supporters.

Racist chanting
UEFA's Control and Disciplinary Body today found the FA guilty of the disciplinary charges relating to pitch incursions and racist chanting at the UEFA EURO 2004™ between England and Turkey played on 2 April in Sunderland.

Grave concern
Considering all of the available evidence and the FA's track record on these issues, the Control and Disciplinary Body imposed a fine of €99,000 - the highest ever for a racism-related charge. The Control and Disciplinary Body expressed its grave concern at the potential risk that occurred to match participants - both players and officials - and totally condemned the offensive and racist verbal abuse of opposing fans.

Pitch invasion
Home supporters invaded the pitch at Sunderland AFC's Stadium of Light after both goals in England's Group 7 victory and Turkey defender Alpay was struck by one fan. 

Continued problem
The committee took account of the track record of the FA in handling domestic safety and security arrangements and their consistent support for the campaign against racism but also the continued problem associated with English fans, particularly those travelling abroad.

Respect an issue
The committee also noted that the actions of certain English players celebrating England's second goal was unfortunate and could be seen as a provocative action and that the issue of respect should be addressed for the future. The charges against the FA and the Turkish Football Association relating to incidents in the tunnel at the match were found not proven due to a lack of evidence.

'Clear warning'
Mike Lee, UEFA's Director of Communications and Public Affairs, said: "The Control and Disciplinary Body have weighed up the available evidence in reaching their conclusions. The verdict has upheld two of the most important charges and sent a clear warning for the future. The English FA's track record on safety and security, particularly at home games, and their actions against racism have been taken into account and we trust that the additional steps that are being proposed will be successful".

Ferguson fined
The Control and Disciplinary Body also imposed a €6,620 fine on the Manchester United FC manager Sir Alex Ferguson for improper statements to the media before his club's UEFA Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid CF. The body took into account the fact that Sir Alex had already been fined previously for a similar offence when reaching its decision.

Principles of conduct
In his statements Sir Alex appeared to cast doubt upon the integrity of the draw for the last eight. UEFA disciplinary regulations state that managers should conduct themselves according to the principle of loyalty, integrity and sportsmanship.

Appeal by Monday
These decisions can be appealed against by midnight on 5 May. Other decisions taken today by the Control and Disciplinary Body will be communicated tomorrow.