March 20 – UEFA has come down hard on NK Olimpija Ljubljana and RSC Anderlecht in the wake of a collection of serious fan misconduct incidents in recent European fixtures.
Olimpija were hit with over €180,000 in fines and a ban on away fans after their supporters engaged in racist behaviour, lit fireworks, hurled objects, chanted illicit slogans and damaged stadium property during both legs of their UEFA Conference League tie against FK Borac, which they lost 1-0 on aggregate.
UEFA also ordered the Slovenian club to pay for five destroyed seats in Banja Luka and enforced a partial stadium closure at their home ground – targeting Sector B – following repeated racism violations. A second stadium closure has been suspended for two years, pending good behaviour.
UEFA activated a previously suspended sanction, the cumulative nature of the penalties reflecting its growing frustration with Olimpija’s inability to control their supporters, which is likely to strain the club’s limited financial resources. Repeated sanctions could also threaten their future participation in European competitions.
Meanwhile, Anderlecht were fined over €51,000 for crowd disturbances and object throwing during their heated 2-2 UEFA Europa League draw with Fenerbahçe in Belgium. They were also ordered to close 4,500 seats for their next UEFA home fixture.
With these punishments, UEFA’s Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body made it clear that fan misconduct will be met with steep penalties, stadium closures and further sanctions if clubs fail to control their crowds.
With sponsorship values, broadcasting deals and club reputations on the line, UEFA’s stance sends a strong message to all clubs about the cost of failing to enforce order – both financially and competitively.
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