Atlético Madrid fined for fans’ racist actions at Arsenal
LONDON – UEFA has fined Atlético Madrid €30,000 and imposed a suspended ban on the club’s away supporters after incidents of racist and discriminatory behaviour during their Champions League defeat to Arsenal in October.
UEFA confirmed that the sanction relates to supporters making racist gestures and noises, including monkey chants and Nazi salutes, at the Emirates Stadium. The case was brought under Article 14 (2) of the UEFA Disciplinary Regulations, which covers racist and discriminatory conduct.
In addition to the €30,000 penalty, Atlético were issued a separate €10,000 fine for the throwing of objects during the match. While the fines take immediate effect, the UEFA Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body (CEDB) opted to suspend the one-match ban on ticket sales for Atlético’s travelling fans for a one-year probationary period.
The disciplinary ruling follows growing pressure on European football bodies to take firmer action against discriminatory behaviour in stadiums. UEFA has stressed in recent seasons that sanctions will escalate for repeated breaches.
UEFA also handed Qarabag FK Youth a €5,000 fine and a suspended order to play one home fixture behind closed doors after supporters were found guilty of racist or discriminatory behaviour during a UEFA Youth League match against Chelsea on Nov. 5.
The latest disciplinary measures underline UEFA’s continued stance that clubs will be held accountable for the conduct of their supporters, with suspensions providing a warning that repeated incidents could result in heavier restrictions in future competitions.