Croatia fined for fans´ racist taunts

Croatia’s Football Association has been fined 80,000 euros for racist chanting and improper conduct by its fans.

UEFA took the action against some of Croatia’s fans for their conduct during the Euro 2012 match against Italy.

European football’s governing body acted after Italy and Manchester City striker Mario Balotelli was subjected to racial abuse from a section of Croatia’s supporters in the 1-1 draw last Thursday.

A statement released on UEFA’s official website read: “The Croatian Football Federation (HNS) has been fined 80,000 euros for the setting-off and throwing of fireworks, and the improper conduct of supporters (racist chants, racist symbols) at the UEFA Euro 2012 Group C match against Italy in Poznan on Thursday, June 14.

“An appeal can be lodged against this decision within three days of the dispatch of the reasoned decision.”

This is the first incident where racism has been punished by UEFA after other cases were dismissed following a lack of evidence.

Croatia exited the tournament at the group stage after finishing third behind Italy and group winners Spain.