UEFA Fines Barcelona for Fans’ Nazi Salutes, Monkey Gestures

UEFA has imposed a fine of 25,000 euros ($26,600) on Barcelona due to racist behavior by some of its fans during a Champions League match against Paris Saint-Germain. The incident, which included Nazi salutes and monkey gestures, occurred last week at the Parc des Princes and was widely documented in images shared from the event.

In addition to the fine, UEFA has provisionally suspended the sale of tickets to Barcelona fans for one away Champions League match next season, putting this sanction on hold for a probationary period of one year.

Moreover, Barcelona must reimburse PSG for damages caused to seating by its supporters, along with paying further penalties amounting to 7,000 euros ($7,500).

Despite a 3-2 victory in Paris during the quarterfinals’ first leg, Barcelona was knocked out of the competition following a 4-1 defeat in the subsequent home leg.

Meanwhile, FIFA is preparing to intensify its anti-racism efforts with a new initiative to be launched at its annual congress next month in Bangkok, Thailand.