Russia to appeal UEFA penalty

Russia will appeal a suspended six-point deduction following disturbances by fans in the Euro 2012 Group A match against Czech Republic.

UEFA handed down the punishment, which will apply to qualify for Euro 2016 if further incidents occur, after Russian supporters threw fireworks and unfurled offensive banners at the Municipal Stadium, Wroclaw, last Friday.

“The Russian football federation is entitled to prepare and submit a written appeal against Uefa’s decision and this will be done within the allotted time for this procedure,” the federation said in a statement.

“The federation will do all it can to ensure the national team avoids such a severe punishment.”

A separate investigation has been opened by UEFA into clashes between Poland and Russia supporters prior to the Group A match between the two countries on Tuesday, which saw 184 people arrested.

Russia defeated the Czech Republic 4-1 in their opening match, before playing out a 1-1 draw with tournament co-hosts Poland in Warsaw.