Everyone knew there would be racism during this summer's European Championships, but it was anyone's guess as to what form it would take. Would it be violent and omnipresent, or would it be verbal and isolated? Somewhere in between? In response to these concerns, UEFA made stamping out racism a centerpiece of Euro 2012; at least, that was their claim. In reality, the fines UEFA has dished out this tournament have highlighted how misguided Eurpean soccer is when it comes to punishing racist acts.
At issue is the insane €100,000 fine given to Denmark striker Nicklas Bendtner for displaying an unauthorized sponsor on his underwear, which was far less than the fine levied against Russia for fan racism. Today, UEFA followed up with an €80,000 fine of the Croatia FA for racist chants and actions their fans (allegedly) directed toward wunderkind Mario Balotelli during a draw versus Italy.
Of course, €80,000 is peanuts compared to the millions of euros Croatia will take home simply for giving Spain and Italy a run for their money (hah!) in Group C, but it also shows, in starkly monetary terms, that UEFA believes racism is a lesser offense than violations of sponsorship rules. Then again, with the history of bigotry in Croatian soccer -- their current FA president got off with a slap on the wrists for claiming there are no gay people in soccer -- it's not really a surprise Croatia doesn't fear significant retribution from UEFA.
Bendtner was not only fined, he was suspended for a World Cup qualifier; why can't UEFA begin docking points from nations whose fans behave inappropriately? What if Croatia had to start World Cup qualifying in a six-point hole; wouldn't that be more of a deterrent than the Croatian FA picking up the tab for racist fans?
No, that's impossible because it makes sense; logic and international soccer have never mixed well.
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Follow on Ology: Anthony Schneck | Euro 2012
Follow on Twitter: @AnthonyOlogy | @OlogySports
[UEFA]
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