FK Crvena zvezda (Illicit chants; stairways blocked; throwing of objects; improper conduct of the team), Decision of 16 November 2017, UEFA Decision

Circumstances of the case

The stairways were blocked in the North sector, and after the final whistle when visiting players and coaches were leaving, between 15 and 20 lighters and one bottle were thrown against the tunnel - No one was hit. There was chanting from the home-supporters between the 28th and 32nd minute: UEFA is mafia. Finally, six cautions were awarded against to FK Crvena Zvezda. With regard to the blocking of stairways, the club stresses that it occurred only on one tribune, a tradition of the hard core fans and no intervention was done as a prevention of possible potential safety and security unrest. Regarding the throwing of objects, the club notes that it took all possible measures to prevent supporters from taking items inside the stadium and that the high number of spectators put together with the isolated incident and with a low number of objects thrown should speak for the efficiency of these measures. Finally, as regards the UEFA Mafia chant, the clubs stresses that it´s not illicit due to the fact that UEFA can’t be the damaged party and the judge at the same time, stressing that supporters might be unaware of the possible negative consequences for their. Finally, the club argues that UEFA itself is also more-and-more aware of the fact that, it is subject to some critical voices raised by supporters and that it would be simply counterproductive disciplinary enforcer

Legal Framework Article 15 (4) and 16 (2) UEFA Disciplinary Regulations; Article 38 UEFA Safety and Security Regulations.

Decision

The CEDB however recalled that all incidents were admitted by the club. The club merely refers to its proper preparation of the match, not presenting any explanations which would undermine the presumed accuracy of the official reports. Regarding the chants and the club’s argument about the fact that UEFA is party accused and judge in these proceedings, the CEDB decided that the argument has no merit insofar. Finally, with regard to the nature of the chant, the CEDB has no doubt that the content is not fit for a sport´s event. CEDB can´t accept that anyone or any institution is compared to a criminal organization, such as it is the mafia, on the basis of a justifiable criticism. Having the above in mind, as well as the club’s previous record, the CEDB deems that a fine € 79´000 is the adequate disciplinary measure.

Chairman: Partl Thomas (AUT)

Vice-Chairmen:
Berzi Sándor (HUN)
Hansen Jim Stjerne (DEN)

Members:
Antenen Jacques (SUI)
Gea Tomás (AND)
Leal João (POR)
Lorenz Hans (GER)
Řepka Rudolf (CZE)
Wolff Joël (LUX)