Mar 6 • 11:56 UTC 🇪🇸 Spain El Mundo

UEFA fines Real Madrid 15,000 euros and issues warning of closure due to fans' racist behavior against Benfica

UEFA has fined Real Madrid 15,000 euros and warned of a potential partial stadium closure due to racist behavior by fans during a Champions League match.

The UEFA Control, Ethics, and Disciplinary Commission has imposed a fine of 15,000 euros on Real Madrid following racist and discriminatory behavior exhibited by its supporters during the Champions League quarter-final match against Benfica. This sanction also includes a warning that the club may face a partial closure of its stadium for further incidents within a year. The disciplinary actions reflect UEFA's ongoing commitment to combat discrimination in football, emphasizing that such behavior is unacceptable in any form.

In addition to the financial penalty, Real Madrid will have to restrict 500 adjacent seats in the lower south section of the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium for their next home game. This measure is contingent upon the club exhibiting good behavior over a trial period of one year, during which any further incidents could lead to more severe consequences. This decision underlines the importance of creating a welcoming environment for all fans in football stadiums.

The incident occurred during the match on February 25, where a supporter from the Madrid's 'Grada Fans' section, known for its displays against racism, was identified and expelled for making a Nazi salute, which was caught on live television. This contradictory behavior highlights the ongoing challenge of addressing racism in sports venues and the need for clubs to actively engage in promoting an inclusive culture among their fans.

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