FIFA has imposed one of its heaviest fines on Albania, ordering the Albanian Football Federation (FSHF) to pay 161,500 Swiss francs (around $200,000) for violations during the June 7 match against Serbia in Tirana.
According to FIFA’s decision, the punishment was issued due to the disruption of Serbia’s national anthem and the display of inappropriate messages not suitable for a sporting event.
The match carried high political tension given the long-standing disputes between Albania and Serbia, most famously reflected during the 2014 drone incident in Belgrade, which stopped a Euro 2016 qualifier.
The June 7 encounter in Tirana ended in a 0-0 draw. The return leg in Belgrade is scheduled for October 11.
Disciplinary Measures
In addition to the fine, FIFA has ordered a 20% reduction in stadium capacity for an upcoming fixture as part of its disciplinary actions. Albania is set to face Latvia next Tuesday, in a group where England currently leads.
Global Sanctions
Albania is not the only federation fined:
- Argentina: fined 120,000 Swiss francs ($149,000) for racist abuse during the June 10 match against Colombia in Buenos Aires. Midfielder Enzo Fernández was suspended for two games and fined separately.
- Chile: fined 115,000 Swiss francs ($143,000) for racist behavior by fans in a June 5 loss against Argentina.
- Colombia: fined 70,000 Swiss francs ($87,000) for incidents during its match against Peru on June 6.
- Serbia: fined 50,000 Swiss francs ($62,000) for racism and other incidents in a June 10 game against Andorra.
- Bosnia and Herzegovina: fined 21,000 Swiss francs ($26,000) for misconduct in the match against San Marino.
FIFA also ordered federations to implement “preventive plans” for future matches as part of its renewed crackdown on racism and discrimination, following global calls for tougher action.
