Croatia fined over Heskey racism
Racist fans in Croatia's Maksimir Stadium have landed the national FA with a £14,900 fine
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Thursday, 25, Sep 2008 02:50
The Croatian Football Federation (CFF) has been fined 30,000 Swiss francs (£14,900) by Fifa for the racist behaviour of its supporters during the World Cup qualifier against England earlier this month.
The Football Association lodged an official complaint after reports were received of striker Emile Heskey being targetted by the "racist chanting" of sections of the crowd in the Maksimir Stadium.
The match ended in a comprehensive 4-1 victory for England, with Heskey playing a major part in the build-up to the visitors' second and third goals.
In a statement, Fifa confirmed the CFF had been found guilty of violating article 58, paragraph two of the international disciplinary code (which states national associations will be culpable for any racist actions of its supporters).
The CFF has also been warned regarding its future conduct in accordance with article 13, and could face more severe sanctions if further infringements occur, the governing body added.
"Racism has no place in football," the statement continued.
"Fifa is determined to continue broadcasting this message around the globe and deploying all of the means at its disposal to eliminate this form of discrimination."
Reacting to the announcement, an FA spokesman added: "We repeat our position that we will not accept any racial abuse of any England players.
"There can be no place for racist behaviour in football or society."
Today's ruling is not the first time Croatia have been in trouble with the authorities over racist elements within their fanbase.
Prior to the Euro 2008 qualifier against England two years ago, the Croatian team paraded an anti-racism banner on the pitch at the same stadium to encourage the nation's far-right element of supporters to behave.
Tannoy announcements were also made to try to combat potential problems.
These measures were introduced in order to stamp out fears over the racist reputation Croatian fans had garnered in Euro 2004, when the team were sanctioned after supporters displayed extremist banners and slogans.
Similar problems were also experienced within the support groups for Croatian club sides competing in Europe in subsequent seasons.