Following the alleged racial abuse aimed towards England players during their 4-0 win away against Hungary, FIFA has opened an investigation. It is not the first time Hungarian fans have been investigated for discriminatory behaviour, either, with fans banded by UEFA from stadiums in July. The punishment did not come into play for the game against England, however, as it was a fixture in a FIFA competition.
FIFA Investigating Racial Abuse Aimed at England Players
Statements Released
The Hungarian FA released the following statement on the matter: “The vast majority of the 60,000 fans present in the Puskas Arena supported the teams in a sporting manner, cheering on the Hungarian national team even when the team was already losing.
“It is in their defence that the minority of disruptive ticket-holders need to be identified and severely punished. Fans entering the field of play, throwing flares and plastic cups are in the process of being identified.
“The MLSZ has already filed or will file police reports against them and will pass on any financial penalties to the perpetrators through civil litigation. Furthermore, at the end of proceedings, those found guilty can expect a two-year ban from all sporting events.”
Meanwhile, a spokesperson from the English FA stated: “It is extremely disappointing to hear reports of discriminatory actions towards some of our England players.
“We will be asking FIFA to investigate the matter. We continue to support the players and staff in our collective determination to highlight and tackle discrimination in all its forms.”
The hope is that FIFA come down hard on Hungary, doing something that they have previously failed to do, their statement read: “First and foremost, FIFA strongly rejects any form of racism and violence and has a very clear zero tolerance stance for such behaviour in football.
“FIFA will take adequate actions as soon as it receives match reports concerning yesterday’s Hungary-England game.
“With regards to the previous UEFA sanction against Hungary, please note that as specified by UEFA at the time, this sanction is to be served in UEFA competitions.”
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