Glasgow, Scotland – UEFA has imposed a €30,000 fine on Rangers Football Club and issued a suspended partial stadium closure following the display of a racist banner by a section of the club’s supporters during a recent Europa League match against Fenerbahce.
The incident, which took place at Ibrox Stadium, sparked immediate backlash from anti-racism organizations and football authorities. UEFA’s disciplinary panel ruled that the banner violated its anti-discrimination regulations, leading to swift punitive measures against the Scottish club.
In response, Rangers FC issued an official statement condemning the act and reaffirming its commitment to inclusivity in football. The club has also taken decisive action by identifying and banning the responsible individuals for life.
“We are deeply disappointed by the actions of a small minority of supporters whose behavior does not represent the values of Rangers Football Club. We fully support UEFA’s efforts to combat discrimination in football and will continue to work closely with authorities to ensure Ibrox remains a welcoming environment for all,” a club spokesperson stated.
The UEFA-imposed stadium closure is currently suspended, meaning it will only be enforced if there is a repeat offense within a specified period. The club has urged its fanbase to uphold the highest standards of conduct to avoid further sanctions.
Football governing bodies and anti-racism advocates have praised Rangers’ swift response in holding the perpetrators accountable. UEFA has reiterated its zero-tolerance policy toward racism and discrimination, emphasizing that clubs will face strict consequences if they fail to address such incidents effectively.
With Rangers still competing in the Europa League, the club now faces additional pressure to maintain order among its supporters while striving for success on the pitch. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing fight against racism in football and the collective responsibility of clubs, players, and fans to foster a more inclusive sporting environment.
