Deduct points for racism, says Henry

French star Thierry Henry has suggested points deductions as a possible punishment for racial abuse against players by supporters.

The 35-year-old striker, who now plays for New York Red Bulls after a successful career at Arsenal and Barcelona, believes that stripping a team of competition points may stop further abuse happening in the future.

“Obviously, I am not in charge of this type of decision. That’s the only way. Because you would find normally that fans do care about that,” Henry told NBC Sports.

“If you do take points away, that can be pretty massive (for teams) that want to win the title. I do think that can be something that can be done.”

Henry believes it’s a harsh punishment but that’s why it could be very effective.

“It’s hard. But if I tell you that if you don’t behave well, your team might lose the game … you might stop,” he said.

“I’m not saying you will stop, but you might stop. Because at the end of the day, we are all there for the team and for the club.”