FIGC reject Lazio stand appeal

Posted Saturday, August 24, 2013 by

Lazio have failed to overturn a partial stadium closure issued for racist behaviour from fans, the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has confirmed.

The north stand of the Stadio Olimpico will remain closed to supporters for Sunday's Serie A game against Udinese after a section of Lazio fans allegedly directed racist abuse at Juventus players during last weekend's Supercoppa Italiana.

A statement published on the FIGC's official website confirmed the Federation's appeal court had rejected the club's appeal against the closure.

A hardcore group of Biancocelesti fans this week broke its silence, insisting provocative boos and catcalls are targeted at all opposition players regardless of race, before offering to end the practice for the good of the club.

Lazio responded by publishing a statement on their official website reading: "Say no to racism!
"On the occasion of the first game of the season, Lazio will send out that strong and direct message to help reject any form of racism or discrimination.

"The fans can choose to have the slogan printed on their shirts that the Lazio players will wear against Udinese."

UEFA ordered Lazio to play two Europa League games behind closed doors in February following continued racist behaviour, which had seen the capital club fined 200,000 euros (£120,000) for offensive chanting in European matches against Tottenham and Maribor.

Roma will also play one home game with the south stand of the Stadio Olimpico off limits to the public this season after racist chants were directed at AC Milan striker Mario Balotelli by Rossoneri fans at San Siro in May.