World Cup 2018: Russia fined by Fifa for racist chants by fans in France friendly
Your support helps us to tell the story
Our mission is to deliver unbiased, fact-based reporting that holds power to account and exposes the truth.
Whether $5 or $50, every contribution counts.
Support us to deliver journalism without an agenda.
Louise Thomas
Editor
Fifa has announced the Russian football association has been fined 30,000 Swiss francs (£22k) after fans racially abused France players during a friendly in St. Petersburg.
Monkey chants were aimed at several black players, including Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba, during France's 3-1 win in March.
Fifa says its disciplinary panel noted “the gravity of the incident but also the limited number of fans involved.”
Fifa says the panel, chaired by judge Anin Yeboah of Ghana, made a “thorough investigation including the review of video evidence.”
The stadium in St. Petersburg will host seven World Cup games, including Russia's Group A game against Egypt and a semi-final match.
The case follows racism charges by Uefa against Zenit St. Petersburg in two Europa League games this season.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments