Russia fined for disruptive fans

UEFA has fined the Russian FA (RFS) and handed them a suspended points deduction for Euro 2016 qualifying, due to their fans’ hooliganism.

The Euro 2012 governing body decided to fine the RFS 120,000 euros, and handed the Russians a suspended points deduction for next tournament’s qualifying, following incidents during Russia’s 4-1 win over Czech Republic on June 8.

Russian fans were involved in crowd disturbances during the game, which included setting off fireworks and displaying illicit banners.

“The UEFA Control and Disciplinary Body today decided to impose a deduction of six points on the RFS for the qualifying competition of the next UEFA European Football Championship,” a statement on the UEFA website reads.

“This decision is suspended for a probationary period running from now until the end of the play-offs for the Euro 2016 finals.

“The RFS has also been fined 120,000 euros. The RFS was facing charges for the improper conduct of its supporters (crowd disturbances), the setting off and throwing of fireworks and the display of illicit banners at last Friday’s Euro 2012 Group A match against the Czech Republic in Wroclaw.

“An appeal can be lodged against this decision within three days of the dispatch of the written decision.”

Russia are first in Group A with four points from two games.