Dinamo sanctioned for fans' racist behaviour

UEFA's Control and Disciplinary Body (CDB) has announced decisions relating to recent cases from UEFA Champions League matches involving GNK Dinamo Zagreb of Croatia:

• FK Austria Wien v Dinamo Zagreb, play-off second leg (27/08/13)

• Dinamo Zagreb v FC Sheriff, third qualifying round first leg (30/07/13)

Dinamo had been charged for the racist behaviour of supporters, throwing of missiles and/or fireworks, and improper conduct of the team (five cards or more).

The Croatian club have been ordered to play two home UEFA competition matches behind closed doors, with half of the suspension (one game) deferred for a probationary period of five years. They have also been fined €70,250.

The fight against racism is a high priority for UEFA. Europe's football governing body has a zero tolerance policy towards racism and discrimination on the pitch and in the stands. All forms of racist behaviour are considered serious offences against the disciplinary regulations and are punished with the most severe sanctions. Following the entry into force of the new disciplinary regulations on 1 June 2013, the fight against racist conduct has been stepped up a level – resulting in more severe sanctions to deter such behaviour.