UEFA blasted for blowing big chance to ‘get tough’ on racism
UEFA HAS “missed an opportunity” to get tough on racism after it ordered Bulgaria to play their next home qualifier behind closed doors over the racist behaviour of their fans during the Euro 2020 match against England.
Anti-discrimination campaigners Kick It Out said they were “disheartened but not surprised” by the sanction.
The federation (BFU) was also fined 75,000 euros (£64,641).
A section of the crowd during the match in Sofia on October 14 directed monkey chants at England’s black players and staff, while some were seen making Nazi salutes. It is understood the Football Association will not appeal against the sanction.
UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin called on the game’s authorities and society as a whole to “wage war” on racism, but Kick It Out said the decision would give anyone affected by abusive behaviour little faith that European football’s governing body was doing enough to prevent it.
“We are disheartened, but not surprised, to learn of Uefa’s response to the racist abuse directed at England players,” the statement read.
“In our view, they have missed an opportunity to send an uncompromising message on racism and discrimination.
“The current sanctions, however ‘tough’ Uefa think they may be, are clearly not working and leave victims with little faith in their ability to prevent abusive behaviour.
“We feel Uefa’s entire disciplinary process in response to racial discrimination should be overhauled, and urge them to explain the decision-making process.”
The FA said in its statement: “Our priority remains our players, support team and fans and we will do all we can to ensure they never have to endure such circumstances again.”