UEFA Cracks Down on Racism in European Soccer

UEFA sanctioned Lazio and Atletico Madrid due to their supporters' racist behavior. Lazio's fines include partial stadium closures for upcoming matches, while Atletico received a fine with a ticket sale suspension for away games. Anderlecht also faced penalties for previous misconduct.

UEFA has imposed sanctions on Lazio and Atletico Madrid following incidents of racist behavior by their supporters during European competitions. The penalties include partial stadium closures and significant fines, aimed at curbing such misconduct in future matches.

Lazio's sanctions involve two sector closures at their Curva Nord stands for their next Europa League home game against Porto on November 7. The Italian club has also been fined 45,000 euros, with further partial closures subjected to a one-year probation period.

Atletico Madrid faces a 30,000-euro fine alongside a suspended ban on selling tickets to away fans. This follows the team's supporters engaging in racist behavior during a Champions League match against Benfica. Meanwhile, Anderlecht has been prohibited from ticket sales for their upcoming Europa League game in Latvia, due to previous crowd disturbances.

(With inputs from agencies.)