Real Madrid has been hit with a €30,000 fine by UEFA for alleged discriminatory behavior by their fans during their Champions League showdown against Manchester City. The punishment comes despite no major incidents being reported by broadcasters or journalists covering the match.
What Happened?
The incident in question took place during Madrid’s 3-1 victory over Manchester City on February 19, a win that secured their spot in the last 16 of the competition. According to UEFA, Madrid’s supporters violated Article 14 of the governing body’s disciplinary regulations, which prohibits “racism, other discriminatory behavior, and propaganda.”
While no visible altercations were caught on television or reported by media outlets at the time, UEFA’s ruling indicates that their investigation uncovered violations serious enough to warrant financial penalties and additional warnings.
What This Means for Real Madrid
Beyond the €30,000 fine, UEFA has placed Real Madrid under strict scrutiny for the next two years. If any similar incidents occur within that timeframe, the club faces a partial stadium closure, affecting at least 500 seats in the Santiago Bernabéu.
Madrid is not alone in facing such disciplinary action. Several clubs and national teams across Europe, including Spanish rivals Barcelona and Atlético Madrid, are currently under similar suspended sanctions for comparable offenses.
What’s Next?
With UEFA cracking down on fan behavior, Real Madrid will have to ensure stricter control over crowd conduct to avoid harsher penalties. The club has yet to issue an official statement on the ruling, but with a two-year warning hanging over them, the pressure is on to prevent any further incidents.
