World Cup hosts Russia fined for discriminatory chanting
Tuesday 8 May 2018 16:03, UK
FIFA has fined the Russian soccer federation £22,000 for discriminatory chanting by fans during a game in Saint Petersburg against France.
Monkey chants were aimed at players, including Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba, during France's 3-1 win over the upcoming World Cup hosts on March 27.
FIFA says a disciplinary panel noted "the gravity of the incident but also the limited number of fans involved".
According to FIFA, the panel, chaired by judge Anin Yeboah of Ghana, made a "thorough investigation, including the review of video evidence".
The stadium in Saint Petersburg will host seven World Cup games, including Russia's Group A game against Egypt and a semi-final match.
The case follows racism charges which were brought by UEFA against Zenit St. Petersburg due to fan behaviour at two Europa League games this season.
