Barcelona have been handed a severe punishment by UEFA after their fans were involved in racist behavior during last week’s Champions League clash against AS Monaco.
The 2-1 loss at the Stade Louis II has now resulted in Barcelona being fined €10,000 ($11,160) and their fans being banned from attending the club’s next European away match.
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Racism costs Barcelona fans as UEFA imposes ban
UEFA’s Control, Ethics, and Disciplinary Body (CEDB) acted swiftly after the incident, citing Article 14(2) of their disciplinary regulations, which deals with racism and discriminatory conduct.
Barcelona’s fans will not be allowed to attend their next Champions League away game against Crvena Zvezda in Belgrade on November 6th.
The trouble began when images surfaced showing Nazi symbolism in the Barcelona supporters’ section during the match.
UEFA had previously warned Barça after a similar incident against Paris Saint-Germain in April, which saw them fined €25,000 ($28,000). This time, the consequences are even harsher, as UEFA enforced the suspended ban from that previous sanction.
Barcelona Vice President Elena Fort did not mince words in her response to the disturbing behavior: “Disgraceful. It’s disgusting and sad that someone who says they love the club acts in this manner. Everything has a limit. This can never be repeated. Never.”
Although Barca ha also been slapped with an additional ban from selling away tickets for another European match, that suspension will be on pverobation for one year. If fans misbehave again, the ban will be enforced immediately.
Barcelona will now have to contend not just with their on-field performances, but also with keeping their supporters in line. With these actions, UEFA is sending a clear message that racism has no place in football.
