UEFA orders Atletico partial stadium closure over fans’ Nazi-style banner

UEFA has ordered the partial closure of Atletico Madrid’s stadium for their next home European match as punishment for a Nazi-style banner displayed in the Europa League final against Marseille in Lyon last month.

The Spanish club, who beat OM 3-0 on May 16 to win the competition for the third time in nine years, faced one charge of “racist behaviour” relating to the banner, while both clubs were charged with the setting-off of fireworks, which occurred prior to kick-off and was repeated throughout. Some of the game was played in a smoky haze as a consequence.

UEFA’s control, ethics and disciplinary body said in a statement that Atletico’s next continental home game will be subject to a partial stadium closure, which will include at least 3,000 seats, with Los Rojiblancos to inform the European governing body at least 30 days before the match of the sector(s) to be closed.

Atletico were also fined 2,000 euros (£1,744) for the setting-off of fireworks.

The charges against Marseille, which also included the delaying of kick-off as a result of the fireworks, general crowd disturbances, acts of damage and the throwing of objects, will be dealt with at the CEDB’s next meeting on a date yet to be determined.

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