Hungary fined by FIFA, handed stadium ban for racist abuse

Players react as the game needs to be interrupted due to flares landing on the pitch during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 qualification Group I football match between Hungary and England, at the Puskas Arena in Budapest. Picture: Getty Images

FIFA has handed Hungary a two-match stadium ban and a six-figure fine after their fans racially abused England’s players last month.

Supporters threw objects on the pitch during the Three Lions’ 4-0 victory in Budapest, while Raheem Sterling and Jude Bellingham were among the players subjected to racist chanting.

The punishment, which includes a £160,000 fine, means Hungary’s fans will be banned from their home World Cup qualifier against Albania on October 9, with the second game of the ban to be suspended for two years.

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In a statement, football’s global governing body said it had found Hungary guilty of racism.

“The FIFA Disciplinary Committee has imposed a ban and a substantial fine on the Hungarian Football Federation (MLSZ) in relation to the racist behaviour of numerous supporters during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 qualifying match between Hungary and England on 2 September 2021.

“After analysing and taking into consideration all the circumstances of the case, specifically the seriousness of the incidents (racist words and actions, throwing of objects, lighting of fireworks, blocked stairways), the Committee decided that the MLSZ would play its next two home matches in FIFA competitions without spectators, the second match being suspended for a probationary period of two years.

“In addition, the Committee imposed a fine of CHF 200,000 (£160,000).”

FIFA went on to say: “FIFA takes a clear zero tolerance stance against such abhorrent behaviour in football.

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“We remain firm and resolute in rejecting any form of racism and violence as well as any other form of discrimination or abuse.”

After the match, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson called on FIFA to take strong action for what he called ‘disgraceful behaviour.’

“I urge FIFA to take strong action against those responsible to ensure that this kind of disgraceful behaviour is eradicated from the game for good,” he said.