One of the most talked about issues in football in recent times is ‘racism’. The accusations were also leveled against the fans of the world champion Argentina. This time, the world football governing body FIFA has fined 6 countries for racist behavior, comments and discrimination. The other countries, including Argentina, are Albania, Chile, Colombia, Serbia and Bosnia-Herzegovina.
All six countries that were punished played World Cup qualifiers in June. The list was published by FIFA’s disciplinary committee. The AP news agency said that FIFA did not provide a detailed explanation for the punishment. Of the six countries, Albania was fined the highest amount of $200,000 (24.3 million taka) for their match against Serbia on June 7. According to FIFA, the disturbance during the national anthem of the opposing country on that day was “a message inappropriate for a sporting event.”
Albania and Serbia have a political conflict. This has also affected their football. In that context, a flag with the words “Greater Albania” was dropped on the field by a drone during a qualifying match for the European Championship in 2014. The match was canceled for 41 minutes. Where some Albanian players were attacked by Serbian fans. Meanwhile, the Albania-Serbia match held in June ended in a goalless draw. The return match will be held in Belgrade on October 11.
Argentina played a qualifying match against Colombia at home in Buenos Aires on June 10. The Albiceleste were fined $149,000 (Tk 18.1 million) for discrimination or racism in that match. The Argentina-Colombia match ended in a 1-1 draw. Where World Cup-winning star Enzo Fernandez saw a red card for a hard tackle on a Colombian footballer. For which he was also banned for one match. However, FIFA increased that punishment to a two-match ban and a fine of $6,200 (Tk 750,000).
This six-figure fine is a message of FIFA’s strong stance against ‘racism and discrimination’. Which was also discussed at the soccer body’s annual meeting last year. Chile lost 1-0 at home to Argentina on June 5. The Chilean Soccer Federation, which was accused of the same reason in that match, was fined $143,000, Colombia, which played against Peru on June 6, was fined $87,000, Andorra’s opponent Serbia on June 10 was fined $62,000, and Bosnia, which played against San Marino, was fined $26,000.
FAQ
Which countries were penalized by FIFA for racist behavior?
FIFA fined Argentina, Albania, Chile, Colombia, Serbia, and Bosnia-Herzegovina for racism, discrimination, or inappropriate fan behavior during matches.
When did these incidents take place?
The incidents occurred during the World Cup qualifiers in June 2024.
How much was Argentina fined?
Argentina was fined $149,000 for racist or discriminatory behavior during their June 10 qualifier against Colombia in Buenos Aires.
What punishment did Albanian football face?
Albania received the heaviest fine, $200,000, after disorderly conduct and inappropriate behavior from fans during their June 7 match against Serbia.
What other fines were issued?
Chile was fined $143,000, Colombia $87,000, Serbia $62,000, and Bosnia-Herzegovina $26,000.
