UEFA fines Turkey and England

UEFA has fined the Turkish Football Association (TFF) €19,400 and the English Football Association (FA) €6,500 for incidents which took place at the UEFA EURO 2004™ qualifying match between the two countries in Istanbul on 11 October.

Improper conduct
The two associations were punished by the UEFA Control and Disciplinary Body for the improper conduct of some Turkish and English players in the tunnel at the match, as well as the improper conduct of one security staff member. A statement by UEFA said: "In reaching its decision, the Control and Disciplinary Body took into account, in particular, the fact that although the referee had seen the incident in the tunnel among the players concerned, he chose not to take any disciplinary measures on the spot, nor to mention any individuals in his match report."

Video evidence
The UEFA Control and Disciplinary Body said it had reached its decision after examining video evidence, the match reports of both the referee, Pierluigi Collina, and the delegate, together with statements received from the two associations.

Lack of order
Part of the TFF's fine was also for a lack of order in the stadium, including the throwing of missiles. The match ended in a goalless draw, which sent England through to the EURO 2004™ final round, while Turkey will contest a play-off against Latvia next month.