UEFA revisits own sanctions
UEFA, EUROPEAN soccer's governing body, has responded to widespread outrage against the racism sanctions imposed on Serbia for the abuse directed at England players during an under-21s match in October by deciding to appeal against its own disciplinary panel's verdict.
UEFA, EUROPEAN soccer's governing body, has responded to widespread outrage against the racism sanctions imposed on Serbia for the abuse directed at England players during an under-21s match in October by deciding to appeal against its own disciplinary panel's verdict.
Serbian fans directed monkey chants at black England players throughout an ill-tempered match in Krusevac that ended in an on-pitch brawl between players and coaches from both teams.
The British government led the condemnation against the perceived leniency of the (euro) 80,000 ($105,000) fine imposed on the Football Association of Serbia. Several Serbian coaches and players were also suspended.
Despite claiming they were provoked, two England players also received bans that will take effect at the under-21 European Championship in June.
While UEFA announced Wednesday it will appeal against all the sanctions imposed on Serbia and England by its independent control and disciplinary body, the governing body highlighted the racist abuse by fans.
Serbia's punishment drew unfavorable comparisons with the (euro) 100,000 fine given to Denmark striker Nicklas Bendtner for wearing sponsored underpants at Euro 2012 in June.
In other soccer news:
* Former Soviet player Mykhailo Fomenko was appointed coach of the Ukraine national team.
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