UEFA to launch racism investigation

UEFA have revealed plans to investigate alleged racist chanting during the opening round of Euro 2012 group fixtures.

Czech Republic full-back Theodor Gebre Selassie has claimed he noticed some racist chants aimed toward him during his team’s 4-1 defeat to Russia in Wroclaw on Saturday.

And Italy forward Mario Balotelli was reportedly the subject of racist abuse during his side’s 1-1 draw against European and world champions Spain on Monday.

Neither national team made an official complaint to UEFA, but European football’s governing body has confirmed new information has made an official investigation viable.

A statement released by the organisation read: “Following the provision of new independent information (Tuesday), regarding the two cases of alleged racist chanting in the Spain-Italy and Russia-Czech Republic matches, UEFA is now conducting further investigations.

“There are, however, no disciplinary proceedings opened at this moment in time.”