FIFA have imposed a two game stadium ban and £160,000 fine on the Hungary Football Association for the racist abuse aimed at England players during the recent World Cup qualifier.
World football’s governing body has declared that Hungary will play their next home game behind closed doors, with the second match of the ban suspended for a probationary period of two years.
They have also been hit with a significant £160,000 fine, which eclipses by some distance previous fines dished out to the nation by FIFA.
Raheem Sterling and Jude Bellingham were both targeted with monkey chants during the game, while England’s starting XI were roundly booed for taking the knee before kick-off.
Missiles were also thrown at England players and staff throughout the game.
FIFA confirmed it in a statement;
“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.
FIFA’s position remains firm and resolute in rejecting any form of racism and violence as well as any other form of discrimination or abuse.
FIFA takes a clear zero tolerance stance against such abhorrent behaviour in football.
The decision rendered by the FIFA Disciplinary Committee was notified to the MLSZ.