UEFA Sanctions Atlético de Madrid for Discriminatory Behavior by Its Fans
UEFA has imposed a 30,000 euro fine on Atlético de Madrid and a suspended ban on travel for its fans, due to the “racist and discriminatory behavior” of its supporters during the Champions League match against Arsenal in October.
UEFA sources revealed that the accusation against Atlético refers to monkey gestures and noises, as well as Nazi salutes made by the Spanish club’s supporters at the Emirates Stadium in London.
These incidents violated Article 14 (2) of the UEFA Disciplinary Regulations, and Atlético fans were also cited for throwing objects during the match.
Despite the seriousness of the charges, the UEFA Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body (CEDB) has suspended the one-match ban on ticket sales for an away match for a probationary period of one year.
The 30,000 euro fine and a separate 10,000 euro sanction for throwing objects are immediate punishments.
UEFA also fined Azerbaijani team Qarabag FK Youth 5,000 euros and ordered the club to play one home match behind closed doors as a result of the “racist and/or discriminatory behavior” of the supporters during a UEFA Youth League clash against Chelsea on November 5.
The behind-closed-doors sanction has been suspended for a probationary period of one year.
