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Another ugly incident of racism involving Belgian striker Romelu Lukaku has forced Italian authorities to close sections of Lazio's stadium and hand the Biancocelesti an accompanying fine
Lazio Football Club faced significant sanctions due to the behaviour of their fans during a heated Coppa Italia quarter-final match against Roma. The incident, which occurred on January 12, 2024, led to Lazio being handed a partial stadium closure as well as a fine.
How it happened
During the match, Lazio fans engaged in racist behaviour, directing monkey chants at Roma's forward Romelu Lukaku. This abuse occurred whenever Lukaku was in possession of the ball.
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The severity of the incident was underscored by reports that the racist abuse was audible to Italian Football Federation observers at the match, coming predominantly from the Curva Nord section and two adjacent areas of the Stadio Olimpico, as per Football Italia
Sanctions Imposed on Lazio
As a result of these actions, Serie A announced that Lazio would face a one-match stand closure, specifically affecting the three sections of the Stadio Olimpico where Lazio’s hardcore fans are usually located. This closure is set for their upcoming league fixture with Napoli. Additionally, Lazio has been fined €50,000. This penalty also includes a warning for the throwing of missiles and smoke bombs during the match.
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This incident is not isolated. Lazio's fans have a history of right-wing affiliations and have been involved in similar incidents in the past. For example, in April of the previous year, Lazio received a suspended one-match stand closure following anti-Semitic and racist chants during another derby with Roma. Moreover, Lazio fans have previously brought France international Samuel Umtiti to tears during a match at Lecce.
According to Sports Times, such incidents highlight the ongoing issue of racism in football, particularly in Italian football, where fascist groups and far-right affiliations among football fans are a known problem. The sanctions against Lazio underline the seriousness with which authorities are now addressing racist behaviour in football stadiums.
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The match itself was marked by high tension. Red cards were shown to several players, and there were clashes between supporters. Additionally, Roma's Edoardo Bove was hit by a thrown beer bottle during a substitution. Outside the Stadio Olimpico, altercations between fans led to further disorder.
Lazio players and managers face suspension
Several players and managers received suspensions due to their conduct during the match. Notably, Gianluca Mancini will miss three future Coppa Italia matches for disrespectful behaviour towards the referee, and other players, including Azmoun, Antonio Mirante, Pedro, and Luca Pellegrini, have received suspensions for varying durations.
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The incident and the ensuing punishments serve as a stark reminder of the challenges facing football in combating racism and maintaining sportsmanship. It also reflects the increasing intolerance of such behaviour by football governing bodies and the broader community.
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