ZURICH (AP) — FIFA has upheld sanctions imposed on Hungary and Bulgaria for anti-Semitic and racist behavior by fans, and says both teams will play World Cup qualifiers in empty stadiums next month after rejecting appeals by both soccer associations.
FIFA says both “have both been warned to their future conduct.”
Hungary fans racially abused Israel’s team at an exhibition game in August in Budapest. Hungary will play neighboring Romania behind closed doors on March 22.
Bulgaria fans made monkey chants at a black Denmark player during a World Cup qualifier in Sofia in October. Bulgaria next plays at home against Malta.
FIFA fined Hungary $43,400 and Bulgaria $38,000.
Both countries can appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
