UEFA Fines Barcelona €32,000 for Racist Behavior of Fans During PSG Match

UEFA has fined Barcelona €32,000 for the racist behavior of their fans during the first leg of the Champions League quarterfinal against Paris Saint-Germain on April 10, 2023. The fines include €2,000 for smoke bombs and fireworks, €5,000 for damage to seats at the Parc des Princes stadium, and €25,000 for racist behavior, including performing Nazi salutes and imitating monkeys.

According to UEFA, the charges against Barcelona were brought following the fixture at Parc des Princes. Images circulated of fans making Nazi salutes and monkey gestures, which UEFA deemed as proven charges of "racist behavior". PSG also sent a letter to UEFA condemning the racist acts and chants directed at their players by some Barcelona fans.

In addition to the fines, UEFA deferred a one-game ban on Barcelona selling tickets to their fans for an away Champions League game next season, placing it on a probationary period of one year. Barcelona was also ordered to compensate PSG for damage to seats by their fans.

The incident occurred during Barcelona's 3-2 win over PSG in the first leg of the quarterfinals, though Barcelona was ultimately eliminated from the competition after losing 4-1 in the home leg. Paris police questioned two people after videos were published on social media showing a Barcelona supporter making monkey noises and another making Nazi salutes at the stadium.

Why this matters: The fines and sanctions imposed by UEFA underscore the organization's commitment to combating racism and discrimination in football. The incident tarnishes the image of the clubs involved and highlights the urgent need for proactive steps to instill a culture of inclusivity and respect among fans.

PSG condemned all forms of discrimination in a statement, emphasizing that the Parc des Princes stadium should be a place open to all football fans and against racism. The financial and ticket-selling penalties serve as a clear message from UEFA regarding the consequences of fan misconduct during international competitions.

This incident comes as FIFA is set to launch a new drive against racism next month at its annual congress meeting in Bangkok, Thailand. The racist behavior by Barcelona fans mars what was otherwise an exciting Champions League quarterfinal tie. UEFA's sanctions aim to maintain discipline and respect within football stadiums and send a strong signal that such conduct will not be tolerated.

Key Takeaways

• UEFA fined Barcelona €32,000 for racist behavior by fans at Champions League match.
• Fans made Nazi salutes, monkey gestures; UEFA deferred 1-game ticket ban on Barcelona.
• PSG condemned racism, said Parc des Princes should be open to all fans.
• Incident comes as FIFA plans new drive against racism at annual congress.
• UEFA sanctions aim to maintain discipline, respect in football, deter such conduct.