Summary
Serbia has taken steps to ensure good behavior from fans in an upcoming World Cup qualifier against England after being punished by FIFA for racist chants in a previous game. At least 15% of the stadium will be empty as part of the penalty. Serbia's football association has a history of fines and sanctions due to various infractions, including discriminatory actions.
Key Facts
- Serbia will have part of their stadium closed when they host England as punishment for racist chanting during a prior match against Andorra.
- The Serbian Football Association has been fined over £600,000 by FIFA and UEFA in the past five years for different infractions.
- These infractions include the use of prohibited items, insults, and racial discrimination by fans.
- Serbia's general secretary has warned fans that further incidents could result in stiffer penalties, like playing games without spectators.
- England's team is aware of UEFA's protocol for dealing with racist abuse and has discussed their response plans.
- Serbia has received multiple penalties from FIFA and UEFA in recent years for discrimination, including partial stadium closures and bans on selling tickets for away games.
- The tensions between Serbia and Kosovo contribute to the political nature of some of the chants.
- None of the recent penalties are reportedly related to racism against Black players.
