UEFA have fined Sevilla and ordered a partial stadium closure for 'racist behaviour' of fans in the Champions League fixture against Manchester City last month.
City alleged that racist chanting was aimed towards young defender Rico Lewis from the Sevilla fans during the Blues' win at the Etihad on November 2. The issue was reported to Greater Manchester Police, and the club said two arrests were made at the time. Sevilla strongly condemned the two fans, and said they would be removed from the list of members if they were proved to have acted in a racist manner.
Now, UEFA have fined Sevilla €5,000 for 'racist behaviour' during the game, and ordered a partial stadium closure of 1,000 seats for the Spanish side's next UEFA fixture. However, that stadium closure is suspended for a probationary period of two years.
ALSO READ: Bernardo Silva backs Jack Grealish to be Man City great and reveals World Cup bets on England games
In a list of disciplinary decisions published on Thursday, UEFA wrote: "To fine Sevilla FC €5,000 and to order the partial closure of Sevilla FC’s stadium, which shall consist of at least 1,000 seats, during the next (1) UEFA competition match it plays as host club, for the racist 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."
At the time, City issued a strong statement, which read: "Manchester City strongly condemns the racist abuse that Rico Lewis was subject to from Sevilla supporters at yesterday’s match.
"We understand that two arrests have been made and are continuing to work with Sevilla and GMP to investigate this matter. We will not tolerate discrimination of any kind at our stadium and will be offering our full support to Rico following these vile incidents."
Sevilla's statement said: "Sevilla FC strongly condemn the behaviour of two fans in the away section of Manchester City's stadium, who were identified and accused of allegedly behaving in a racist manner towards Manchester City player Rico Lewis.
"Sevilla FC are awaiting official confirmation of these facts, of which they have been made aware by Manchester City, and if these are proven, the two fans will be removed from the list of members.
"Sevilla FC would like to point out that there have never been any racist or xenophobic episodes at the Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán stadium and that its fans have always been committed to the fight against racism."
READ NEXT:
