If not this Wednesday, it will be in the next few days when the UEFA will open an unusual file after the incidents that occurred last night in the rivalry between Romania and Kosovo in Bucharest. The match was suspended for almost an hour after the Kosovar players left the pitch in the 19th minute of the match when Romanian fans started chanting ‘Serbia, Serbia!’ and a ‘Kosovo is Serbia’ banner appeared. Romania is one of the countries that does not recognize the sovereignty of Kosovo.
Then we have to wait to know its conclusions, but in which the Romanian Federation was exposed to harsh punishment. Article 11 of the UEFA Disciplinary Code states that national associations are responsible for “disruption and abandonment of the field”.
Furthermore, article 14 regarding racist acts clearly states that “if one or more members of a federation insult or attack because of their race, religious origin, etc.,” they are exposed to the partial closure of their stadium in addition to a fine. But the article itself leaves open the possibility that the field will be completely closed for one or more games. And even losing the match.
Furthermore, UEFA article 16 on order and security holds the local federation responsible for the behavior of its fans. Among other things, for using “acts, words or any other means to send a provocative message” and especially one that is political, ideological or religious.
Thus, Romania has been exposed to a harsh punishment from UEFA and we will see what position the Disciplinary Committee takes on the decision of the Kosovar players to leave the field of play.
Source: La Verdad
I’m Rose Herman and I work as an author for Today Times Live. My expertise lies in writing about sports, a passion of mine that has been with me since childhood. As part of my job, I provide comprehensive coverage on everything from football to tennis to golf.
