UEFA stepping up its anti -racism campaign?
Posted, September 11, 2008 @ 15:00
Chris Heaton Harris, Conservative MEP and chairman of the European Parliament's Sports Intergroup has welcomed the launch of a new anti-racism campaign in European football but has called on UEFA to impose stricter punishments on clubs, players or fans making racist comments and gestures.
Following today's launch by the European Commission, UEFA and FARE (Football Against Racism in Europe) of the "different languages, one goal" campaign, Mr Heaton-Harris, who is also a qualified referee, said:
"It is good to see that UEFA are getting their act together on this subject and sending a unified message to fans around Europe. However, to show how serious they are on the issue UEFA must take a much tougher stance against clubs, players or fans that make racist gestures or comments.
"Most of us remember that night in Madrid where Ashley Cole and Shaun Wright-Phillips were subjected to monkey taunts from Spanish fans. The fact that no tough action was taken against the Spanish FA and that Spain are European champions 3 years later is hardly sending out a tough message.
"It seems there may also have been some racist chanting at England's match in Croatia. If that turns out to be true, UEFA need to keep to their word and show zero tolerance. This behaviour needs to be kicked out of the game for good."