UEFA fines Russian soccer union following fan violence in Poland
WROCLAW, Poland — European soccer’s governing body UEFA levied a €120,000 ($151,000) fine and a possible points reduction on the Russian Football Union Wednesday due to the “improper conduct” of Russian fans at the Euro 2012 tournament in Poland.
UEFA imposed a six-point reduction, which could come into effect during Russia’s Euro 2016 qualifying bid, following a series of violent incidents involving the national team’s travelling supporters.
The points penalty was suspended, however, pending a three-year probation period.
“The UEFA Control and Disciplinary Body [Wednesday] decided to impose a deduction of six points on the Football Union of Russia (RFS) for the qualifying competition of the next UEFA European Football Championship,” the ruling body stated in a statement.
“The RFS was facing charges for the improper conduct of its supporters (crowd disturbances), the setting off and throwing of fireworks and the display of illicit banners at last Friday’s UEFA Euro 2012 Group A match against the Czech Republic in Wroclaw.”
The Russian soccer union has three days to launch an appeal.
Russian fans have been at the center of media attention from the onset of the European Championship. Approximately 20 to 30 Russian supporters attacked stadium security staff after its 4-1 win over Czech Republic in Wroclaw last Friday.
In a separate incident Friday, Russian fans celebrating the victory in the tournament co-host city of Lviv in Ukraine clashed with local fans.
The series of incidents escalated Tuesday in the lead up to Russia’s highly anticipated Group A clash against longtime rival Poland in Warsaw.
Police were forced to use tear gas, water cannon and rubber bullets after violence erupted between Russian and Polish gangs of hooligans.
Polish police released a statement Wednesday saying 184 unruly fans had been detained in connection with the clashes. The figure included 156 Poles and 24 Russians.
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