WORLD CUP hosts Russia have been charged with fan racism by Fifa following complaints after their international friendly against France.
Monkey chants were heard when black players touched the ball during the game in St Petersburg, which France won 3-1.
After collecting evidence of the abuse, Fifa says “disciplinary proceedings have been opened against the Russian Football Union for this incident.”
Russia was previously charged with racist behavior by its fans at the last two European Championships. On both occasions, the RFU paid a fine.
It’s the third racism case this season at St Petersburg Stadium, which will host a World Cup semi-final match.
Zenit St Petersburg has twice faced Uefa charges for racism by its fans in Europa League games.
Alexei Smertin, the Russian Football Union’s anti-discrimination inspector, said global soccer’s governing body had informed it about the launch of an investigation into the incident.
The ex-Chelsea ace said: “The Russian Football Union is ready to take an active part in it (the FIFA probe) and is already conducting an internal investigation.
POG OUT Man United star looks set to leave Old Trafford
Smertin told a news conference later on Monday that the perpetrators of racist abuse should be punished.
He added: “We are looking for the people who were shouting.
Most Read In Football
“They should not be at soccer stadiums.”
Russia has pledged to crack down on racism as the country faces increased scrutiny ahead of this year’s World Cup, which it will host from June 14 to July 15 in 11 cities including Moscow, St Petersburg and Sochi.
There have been other reported cases of racist abuse, however, in the run-up to the tournament.
Leave a comment