Lausanne (AFP)
FLa Fifa on Tuesday sanctioned the Hungarian Football Association (MLSZ) with a closed-door match and a fine, over "the racist behavior of many of its supporters" towards English players in early September in Budapest.
During the victory of the "Three Lions" (4-0) against Hungary in a qualifying match for the World Cup-2022, British media had reported racist chants, including cries of monkey, targeting midfielder Jude Bellingham and striker Raheem Sterling.
The FIFA disciplinary committee, which opened an investigation on September 3, imposed a fine of 200,000 Swiss francs (184,700 euros) on the MLSZ as well as a home meeting behind closed doors.
If they do it again, the Hungarians risk a second match without spectators, with "a two-year reprieve".
The internal justice of the instance took into account "the seriousness of the incidents observed", adding to "racist words and acts" the "throwing of objects", the use of pyrotechnic devices and the "blocking of stairs" , she listed in a statement.
Invited to crack down by the British government after the meeting, Fifa says it condemns "all forms of racism and violence, as well as any other form of discrimination or abuse", promising "zero tolerance in the face of deplorable behavior affecting football ".
In July already, the MLSZ had been sanctioned with three matches behind closed doors (including one suspended), this time by UEFA, for the "discriminatory behavior of its supporters" during the three matches played by its selection at Euro .
Racist cries against black players of the France team had in particular been launched from the platform where the Hungarian ultras were in Budapest, on June 19.
UEFA had also investigated homophobic banners or placards waved by supporters during the other first round matches against Portugal and Germany.
© 2021 AFP