FIFA take strict measures against racism

Clubs whose fans are guilty of racist abuse can be deducted points or even relegated under new regulations approved by FIFA's executive committee on Thursday.

The new penalties range from match suspensions to deductions of points; three for a first offence, six for a second and relegation if there are further offences.

FIFA have ordered confederations and member associations to incorporate the new penalties into their regulations, and has threatened to exclude associations from international football for up to two years if they fail to do so.

The issue was highlighted once again at a recent Primera Liga game in Spain when Barcelona striker Samuel Eto'o was the subject of heavy abuse at Real Zaragoza. The Cameroon international had to be persuaded by the referee and team-mates not to walk off the pitch.

"I have repeatedly stressed FIFA's and my firm personal stance against racism and discrimination, but recent events have demonstrated that there is a need for concerted action and an urgency for more severe measures to be adopted in order to kick this evil out of the beautiful game," said FIFA President Sepp Blatter.

"I am therefore extremely pleased that the football family and the FIFA Executive Committee have today taken a big step in this direction."

The FIFA committee had heard evidence from Juventus defender Lilian Thuram prior to making its decision, and the France international was pleased with the outcome.

"Now that the clubs and associations have an obligation to find a solution, they will find the solutions necessary to eliminate this plague," he said.