Croatia face UEFA sanctions over racism claims

UEFA acted to stamp out monkey chanting at the European Championship for the first time today after opening disciplinary proceedings against Croatia over the alleged abuse of Mario Balotelli.

European football’s governing body announced they were taking action against the Croatian Football Federation over the racist behaviour of their fans during the country’s 1-1 Group C draw against Italy on Thursday.

It was unclear this afternoon whether the proceedings were also intended to deal with claims a banana was thrown onto the field during the game in Poznan or if that would be handled separately.

UEFA said in a statement: “UEFA has opened disciplinary proceedings against the Croatian Football Federation (HNS) for the setting-off and throwing of fireworks, and the improper conduct of supporters (racist chants, racist symbols) at the UEFA Euro 2012 Group C match against Italy in Poznan on Thursday.

“The UEFA Control and Disciplinary Body will deal with the case on 19 June.”