October 31 – Celtic and Lazio have been charged by UEFA after fans participated in “illicit chanting” during the Europa League group clash between the two teams last week.
The chants were not racist, but related to the use of obscene language.
The Scottish Premiership club have also been sanctioned for fans displaying “illicit banners” during the 2-1 win. One depicted former Italian leader Benito Mussolini hanging upside down and another displayed swearing in Italian. Lazio fans were seen giving fascist salutes before the match.
The cases come before UEFA’s control, ethics and disciplinary body on November 21.
It is the 19th time Celtic have been punished since 2007 and their third charge this season. Last month, they were fined £10,400 by UEFA for fans setting off flares in the Europa League win over Cluj.
“It’s accumulating and it’s not doing the reputation of the club any good,” manager Neil Lennon told the BBC.
All eyes are now on Celtic’s visit to Rome next week for corresponding fixture amid fears of further outbreaks of trouble. The Lazio Ultras have a reputation for being one of the most aggressive fan groups in Europe.
“If fans are going out there, I hope they come back safely because there seems to be a build up of animosity between the sets of fans,” Lennon added.
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