Hungary have been hit with a fine and a stadium ban as punishment for the racist abuse England players faced by fans in Budapest earlier this month.
The sanction was handed down by Fifa after Hungary supporters aimed monkey chants at Raheem Sterling and Jude Bellingham during England’s 4-0 win against Hungary in a World Cup Qualifier on September 2nd.
Hungary has been ordered to play two Fifa competition matches behind closed doors, and have also been fined 200,000 Swiss francs (£158,000).
A statement from Fifa reads: “After analysing and taking into consideration all the circumstances of the case, specifically the seriousness of the incidents (racist words and actions, throwing of objects, lighting of fireworks, blocked stairways), the committee decided that the MLSZ would play its next two home matches in Fifa competitions without spectators, the second match being suspended for a probationary period of two years.
“Fifa’s position remains firm and resolute in rejecting any form of racism and violence as well as any other form of discrimination or abuse. Fifa takes a clear zero-tolerance stance against such abhorrent behaviour in football.”
This isn’t the first time Hungary has been sanctioned this year as in July, they were ordered to play their next three Uefa games without supporters following incidents of racism and homophobia at Euro 2020, with one of those games suspended for two years. However, those sanctions will apply next year when the Nations League takes place.
[Image by Taljat David via Shutterstock]