Record fine imposed on FA over Turkey game

The English Football Association was today handed a record fine by UEFA and issued with a final warning on the future conduct of fans.

UEFA's Control and Disciplinary Body today found the FA guilty of the disciplinary charges and fined them €99,000 - the highest ever fine for a racism-related charge. The decision was in response to pitch incursions and racist chanting at the UEFA EURO 2004 between England and Turkey played on 2 April in Sunderland.

UEFA expressed its "grave concern" at the potential risk that occurred to match participants - both players and officials - and "totally condemned" the offensive and racist verbal abuse of opposing fans.

Home supporters invaded the pitch at Sunderland AFC's Stadium of Light after both goals in England's Group 7 victory and Turkey defender Alpay was struck by one fan.

The committee said it took account of the track record of the FA in handling domestic safety and security arrangements and their consistent support for the campaign against racism.

However, the committee also noted that the actions of certain English players celebrating England's second goal was "unfortunate" and could be seen as a provocative action and that the issue of respect should be addressed for the future.

The charges against the FA and the Turkish Football Association relating to incidents in the tunnel at the match were found not proven due to a lack of evidence.

Mike Lee, UEFA's Director of Communications and Public Affairs, said: "The verdict has upheld two of the most important charges and sent a clear warning for the future. The English FA's track record on safety and security, particularly at home games, and their actions against racism have been taken into account and we trust that the additional steps that are being proposed will be successful."

And in a separate judgment, the committee imposed a €6,620 fine on the Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson for "improper statements" to the media before his club's UEFA Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid.

In his statements Sir Alex appeared to cast doubt upon the integrity of the draw for the last eight. UEFA disciplinary regulations state that managers should conduct themselves according to the principle of loyalty, integrity and sportsmanship.

The body took into account the fact that Sir Alex had already been fined previously for a similar offence when reaching its decision.

Appeals may be lodged against the decisions up until midnight on 5 May.

(GMcG)