Gelsenkirchen, Germany – UEFA has fined the Serbian Football Association €14,500 for breaches of conduct during their Euro 2024 Group C opener against England, which ended in a 1-0 defeat for Serbia. The fines were imposed for two specific violations: the throwing of objects and transmitting a provocative message deemed unsuitable for a sports event.
The match, held on June 16, 2024, saw England secure victory with a first-half header from Jude Bellingham. Following the game, UEFA swiftly opened disciplinary proceedings under Article 55 of the UEFA Disciplinary Regulations. The fines were detailed as €4,500 for the throwing of objects and €10,000 for the inappropriate message.
A statement from UEFA on Monday outlined the initiation of these proceedings. UEFA’s Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body (CEDB) will further investigate allegations of discriminatory behavior during the match. This move underscores UEFA’s dedication to maintaining discipline and ethical standards in its tournaments.
This action against Serbia is part of UEFA’s broader commitment to ensuring appropriate conduct at sports events. In a similar context, Albania was also fined after their 2-1 loss to Italy, where fans set off pyrotechnics following a goal by Nedim Bejrami.
These penalties highlight the necessity for national football associations to enforce compliance with UEFA’s strict regulations. The Serbian Football Association’s punishment serves as a clear example of the repercussions of rule violations, stressing the importance of proper behavior by both fans and participants.
For the football community, these incidents are a stark reminder of the importance of respect and civility in sports. The fines reflect UEFA’s ongoing efforts to preserve the integrity of football and ensure a fair, enjoyable experience for all. As investigations continue, adherence to these standards remains paramount to the sport’s integrity and reputation.