Explained: Why UEFA slapped hefty fine on Real Madrid and threatened with partial closure of stadium?

Real Madrid have been fined by UEFA following homophobic chants directed at Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola during their recent Champions League encounter. The governing body of European football has also issued a suspended partial stadium closure, citing violations of their disciplinary regulations.

What happened?

The incident took place on Thursday, 20 February at the Santiago Bernabeu when Real Madrid hosted Manchester City in a high-profile Champions League fixture. During the match, a section of Madrid fans was heard chanting discriminatory slogans targeting Guardiola. Madrid went on to win the match 3-1, but the behavior of their supporters has now led to serious repercussions from UEFA.

UEFA’s ruling and punishment

On Friday, 28 February UEFA confirmed that Real Madrid had been fined €30,000 (Rs. 27 lakh) and handed a stadium sanction. As per the ruling, at least 500 seats at the Bernabeu will be closed for one Champions League match. However, this punishment has been suspended for a two-year probationary period and will be imposed if there are further incidents. UEFA’s statement cited Article 14 of its disciplinary regulations to impose the sanctions.

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“The AB has decided to fine Real Madrid CF €30,000 and to order the partial closure of Real Madrid CF’s stadium (i.e. at least 500 adjacent seats) during the next match Real Madrid C.F. will play as host club, for the discriminatory behaviour of its supporters. Said partial stadium closure is suspended for a probationary period of two (2) years, starting from the date of the present decision,” UEFA Appeals Body said in its statement.

What is Article 14?

UEFA’s Article 14 is part of its stance against discrimination in football. It holds clubs accountable for the actions of their supporters and imposes penalties ranging from fines to stadium closures and even match forfeitures. UEFA has used this regulation to crack down on racism and other discriminatory behavior in stadiums.

What this means for Real Madrid?

While the fine is a financial setback, the real concern for Madrid will be the suspended stadium closure. If a similar incident occurs within the next two years, the punishment will be enforced, and Madrid could face further disciplinary action.

Meanwhile, during Real Madrid’s Copa del Rey semi-final first leg against Real Sociedad on Wednesday, Vinicius Jr was subjected to racist abuse from the stands. The match was briefly halted after chants of “Asencio die” were directed at Real Madrid defender Raul Asencio, as reported by Spanish media. Additionally, a video circulating on social media showed a Real Sociedad fan making monkey gestures towards Vinicius Junior while the game was paused.