Fifa to probe Croatian 'racist chanting' at Heskey
Fifa to probe alleged racist chanting by Croatia fans at Emile Heskey
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Wednesday, 17, Sep 2008 12:49
Football's world governing body Fifa has opened an investigation into allegations of racist chanting aimed at England's Emile Heskey by Croatian fans last week.
It has been alleged by the Football Association that the Wigan Athletic striker was subjected to "racial abuse" from the stands at the Maksimir Stadium during the World Cup qualifier.
Heskey played a part in England's second and third goals as the visitors sealed a comfortable 4-1 victory, leaving the hosts' players and fans visibly shell-shocked.
However, the FA demanded Fifa launch an investigation into the alleged behaviour of certain sections of the Croatian support.
A spokesman said: "We can confirm that we will be making a report to Fifa about the racist chanting aimed at Emile Heskey by some Croatia fans during the World Cup qualifying game in Zagreb.
"It is unacceptable for anyone to be subjected to racial abuse and we will be asking Fifa to investigate this.
"The FA and England team are determined to do all they can to eradicate any form of racism from football and society."
The probe is not be 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.