birminghammail--2019-10-10--England fans face £200 on-the-spot fines in Prague ahead of Czech Republic Euro 2020 qualifier

England supporters are being warned they could face a £200 on-the-spot fine for drunken behaviour amid fears of trouble in Prague.  Almost 3,800 Three Lions fans have bought tickets for Friday night's Euro 2020 qualifier against the Czech Republic, with more expected to travel.  The late kick-off time of 8.45pm and the city's party reputation have led to fears of a repeat of ugly scenes witnessed on recent trips to Amsterdam, Dortmund and Porto.  The fixture also coincides with a national day of mourning for the country's most famous singer, Karel Gott, who died last week, and travelling fans have been told to be respectful of mourners.  The Football Association is asking England supporters to "report that idiot" if they see anti-social behaviour, while police have urged those going to the game to not "embarrass themselves".  Deputy Chief Constable Mark Roberts, the National Police Chiefs' Council's Football Policing Lead, said British officers are on the ground to help local police to deal with any troublemakers.  "The Czechs are very keen on early intervention, which is good, because our advice will be try to stop situations developing into something where you've got several hundred people, perhaps in drink.  "It's far better to move in early, try to have a chat with people, make sure people are behaving,  "The Czechs have said they will enforce the £200 on-the spot-fine for people being drunk in the street.  "Whilst everyone who has a drink clearly isn't going to be dealt with that way, if there are people who are getting a bit out of hand, starting to act in a disorderly manner, there is that option and they could face a fine on the spot."  Some fans flying on Thursday were warned about their conduct before their planes left the ground with a pre-flight announcement from the pilot asking them to behave to avoid an early landing.  Plainclothes police checked some passengers as they boarded, while British officers were visible as travellers cleared passport control in Prague.  Mr Roberts said: "Prague's a beautiful city. Go, enjoy it, it's an absolutely fantastic place. We've got a team that's worth supporting and celebrating so there's plenty of things to go and enjoy.  "Just don't embarrass yourself or anyone else by drinking to excess and behaving in a way where you will see yourself on film or in print the next day."  He added: "When we have a drunken group who behave poorly, that affects the way police regard all England fans.  "We have had incidents where thoroughly decent England fans who are just there to see the match have been subject to some fairly robust policing.  "In Portugal, some fans just queuing to get in were batoned and that's probably out of the frustration local police build up when they see people behaving in a drunken and anti-social manner.  "And it's no guarantee the people who caused the problems are the ones who are going to suffer for their actions."


tass--2019-01-11--UEFA fines Spartak Moscow FC 5800 for fans misconduct at away match with Villarreal FC

UEFA fines Spartak Moscow FC $5,800 for fans misconduct at away match with Villarreal FC

MOSCOW, January 11. /TASS/. The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) announced on Friday that its disciplinary body decided to impose a penalty of 5,000 euros (some $5,800) on the Russian football club Spartak Moscow over club’s fans misconduct at an away match last month.  Disciplinary proceedings were opened following the UEFA Europa League’s Group G match between Spanish football club Villarreal and FC Spartak Moscow (2-0), played on December 13, 2018 in Spain.  The UEFA Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body (CEDB) announced in its statement today that based on charges of "setting off of fireworks" and "throwing of objects," the CEDB "has decided to fine FC Spartak Moscow 5,000 euros."  The CEDB also ruled to fine Villarreal 12,000 euros (over $13,800) on charges of "stairways blocked," and to "to suspend the Villarreal CF player Costas Jorda Jaume for two (2) UEFA competition matches for which he would be otherwise eligible."  Spartak Moscow was also fined earlier this season by the UEFA an aggregate of 55,000 euros ($63,400) following Europa League’s matches against Rangers FC and Rapid FC and 31,000 euros ($35,700) after the Champions League’s match with Greek football club PAOK.  In other media


theindependent--2019-02-22--Chelsea transfer ban Fifa fines FA 390000 and warns it must clean up act within six months

Chelsea transfer ban: Fifa fines FA £390,000 and warns it must clean up act within six months

Fifa has fined the English Football Assocation £390,000 after the organisation was found to have “breached the [transfer] rules in connection with minors”, and warned that it must clean up its act within six months or face further punishment.  It follows the news that Chelsea have been fined £460,000 and banned from completing transfers for two windows after breaking the rules in the case of an extraordinary 29 different players under the age of 18.  In a statement which detailed Chelsea’s ban from registering new players until July 2020, Fifa added: “The Football Association was also found to have breached the rules in connection with minors.  “It was fined CHF 510,000 and given a period of six months to address the situation concerning the international transfer and first registration of minors in football.”  Keep up to date with all the latest news with expert comment and analysis from our award-winning writers


thesun--2019-11-22--Chelsea boss Frank Lampard consulted players before introducing fines system

Lamps maintains arriving on time for work is more about respect for team-mates than sneaking a lie-in.  A leaked list from the training ground showed rolling up late for training results in a £20,000 fine.  And under this season’s code of conduct, if your mobile rings in a team meeting it’s a grand!  The cash from the fines will go mainly to good causes.  And Lampard ran the rules past the players’ union via skipper Cesar Azpilicueta with everybody’s approval.  The Blues chief said: “The players were part of the process. I’m not here to be a dictator.  “We’re here to be successful as a football club and discipline is part of it.  “I can understand it might sound harsh. But it’s not harsh if you’re not late. It’s nothing.  “My only concern when that came out was it makes me look like trying to be Mr Tough Guy. I’m not.  “We spoke with the players and I gave the list to Cesar when we set out the fines.  “I expect them to look after each other on the pitch and when they train, so I expect them to respect each other in terms of turning up.  “If you talk about coming late to training, we arrive at ten and start training at 11.  “If you’re like an hour and 15 minutes late without any excuse, that’s quite a big deal if you’re preparing for a game against Man City on the next day.”


eveningstandard--2019-03-22--Neymar could face Champions League ban after Uefa VAR charge over PSG vs Man Utd penalty rant on Ins

Neymar could face Champions League ban after Uefa VAR charge over PSG vs Man Utd penalty rant on Instagram

Neymar faces a potential Champions League ban after Uefa charged the PSG star with "insulting and/or molesting" the referee following his post-game rant against Manchester United.  The Brazil forward, who was sidelined for the round-of-16 tie by injury, lashed out following PSG's spectacular second-leg home defeat to United, which saw them exit the competition on away goals.  Referee Damir Skomina awarded United an injury-time penalty after consulting the video assistant referee (VAR) system, with Presnel Kimpembe adjudged to have handled a shot by Diogo Dalot.  Marcus Rashford scored the resulting spot-kick to send United through to the quarter-finals, with Neymar labelling VAR "disgrace."  Neymar wrote on his Instagram story: "They put four guys that do not understand football to watch it in slow motion. This doesn't exist!"  He then used profanity while writing about the video assistants.  Uefa investigated Neymar's comments, and have since charged the PSG forward.  "Disciplinary proceedings have been opened following the Uefa Champions League Round of 16 second leg match between Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester United FC (1-3), played on 6 March in France," Uefa said in a statement.  "Player Neymar Junior - insulting / molesting acts against match official (statements made by the player following the above-mentioned match) - Art. 15 (1) (d) of the UEFA Disciplinary Regulations."  If the Brazilian is found guilty, he could be suspended for three matches in the competition for insulting match officials.  Uefa's Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body will look into the case and a date for the hearing is yet to be confirmed.  PSG coach Thomas Tuchel had said after the game that he understood Neymar's anger and defended his comments, saying they were made in the heat of the moment.


tass--2019-02-13--UEFA opens disciplinary proceedings against Zenit FC after away match with Fenerbahce

MOSCOW, February 13. /TASS/. The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) has initiated disciplinary proceeding against Russian football club Zenit St. Petersburg following the match of the Europa League’s Round of 32 against Turkey’s Febnerbahce on Tuesday in Istanbul.  "Disciplinary proceedings have been opened following the UEFA Europa League Round of 32 match between Fenerbahce SK and Football Club Zenit (1-0), played on 12 February in Turkey," the European governing football body announced in a statement on Friday.  The UEFA reported in its statement that the disciplinary proceedings against Zenit St. Petersburg FC were launched on charges of " setting off of fireworks," as well " Throwing of objects."  Fenerbahce and Zenit played their first leg match of the UEFA Europa League’s Round of 32 on February 12 at the Sukru Saracoglu Arena in Istanbul. The only goal in the game was scored by Islam Slimani on the 21st minute of the game.  Following the match, the UEFA also opened disciplinary proceedings against hosts Fenerbahce FC on charges of "stairways blocked."  The Russian Consulate General’s Office also refuted on Wednesday earlier media reports about an alleged attack on a bus with Zenit St. Petersburg football club’s fans in Istanbul on Tuesday.  "We have checked allegations on a possible attack on a bus carrying Zenit St. Petersburg fans during the match day and this information turned out to be false," Lyudmila Sadykova, a spokesperson for the Russian Consulate General’s Office in Istanbul, told TASS.  The return match between Fenerbahce and Zenit is scheduled to be played on February 21 in Russia’s second largest city of St. Petersburg.  In other media


theguardianuk--2019-02-13--Manchester United charged by Uefa after bottles thrown at Angel Di Maria

Manchester United charged by Uefa after bottles thrown at Ángel Di María

Uefa has opened disciplinary proceedings against Manchester United after two bottles were thrown from the stands towards Ángel Di María during [Paris Saint-Germain’s win at Old Trafford](https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/feb/12/manchester-united- psg-champions-league-match-report) on Tuesday.  Di María, a former United player, picked up a beer bottle and pretended to drink from it. Later a bottle of water was hurled at him and United can expect a fine when the case is dealt with by [Uefa](https://www.theguardian.com/football/uefa) on 28 February.  The club have also been charged with having stairways blocked, while PSG face a series of charges over the conduct of their fans: setting off fireworks, throwing objects, acts of damage and crowd disturbance. An item landed at the feet of United’s Luke Shaw in the first half.


theguardianuk--2019-02-28--Chelsea escape Uefa punishment over antisemitic chants

Chelsea escape Uefa punishment over ‘antisemitic’ chants

[Chelsea](https://www.theguardian.com/football/chelsea) will not face punishment for what the club themselves described as antisemitic chanting by their fans at a Europa League game in Hungary after Uefa closed the disciplinary proceedings.  There was no explanation from European football’s governing body, which had charged Chelsea with racist behaviour by supporters at December’s match against Vidi, but it is believed it reached the decision because it could not gather enough evidence.  After the Europa League game Chelsea publicly condemned a small section of their travelling support for an anti-Tottenham Hotspur chant which referenced “Yids”. They said the chant, heard in the opening three minutes of the game, [“shamed the club”](https://www.theguardian.com/football/2018/dec/13/vidi- chelsea-europa-league-match-report) and they questioned “the brainpower” of those responsible.  Chelsea [faced a partial closure](https://www.theguardian.com/football/2018/dec/14/chelsea-part- stadium-closure-uefa-fans-guilty-antisemitism) of Stamford Bridge in European competition if found guilty. A Uefa statement said: “The CEDB [control, ethics and disciplinary body] has decided to close the disciplinary proceedings against Chelsea FC.”  Real Madrid’s [Sergio Ramos has been suspended](https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/feb/26/sergio-ramos-set- for-longer-ban-after-uefa-charge-him-for-deliberate-booking) for an extra European match after Uefa found him guilty of “clearly receiving a yellow card on purpose” and will miss two games in total.  Ramos was booked in the 89th minute of Madrid’s 2-1 win at Ajax. Immediately after the match he was quoted as saying he “would be lying” if he were to deny deliberately earning the caution, which meant he could serve a ban in the return leg of the last-16 tie and start with a clean disciplinary slate in any quarter-final. Later he used social media to claim he had not intentionally collected a yellow card but was referring to purposely giving away a free-kick to prevent an Ajax equaliser.  [Uefa](https://www.theguardian.com/football/uefa) has fined Manchester United €16,000 (£13,700) over the throwing of objects and blocked stairways in the Champions League game at home to Paris Saint-Germain. The French club have been fined €41,000 for their fans’ behaviour at Old Trafford and ordered to compensate United for damage caused to the segregation net and seats.


theguardianuk--2019-03-18--Cristiano Ronaldo charged with improper conduct for Atletico celebration

Cristiano Ronaldo charged with improper conduct for Atlético celebration

The Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo is facing disciplinary action for his celebration after one of the three goals he scored in [last week’s 3-0 win over Atlético Madrid](https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/12 /juventus-atletico-madrid-champions-league-last-16-second-leg-match-report) in the Champions League.  Uefa said the Portuguese would face a hearing on Thursday for “improper conduct” during the last-16 second leg match, where [Juventus](https://www.theguardian.com/football/juventus) completed a 3-2 aggregate win.  Ronaldo made a similar gesture to Atlético coach Diego Simeone, who celebrated his team’s opening goal in the first leg by turning to the crowd and putting his hands on his trousers.  Simeone was fined €20,000 for the incident but escaped a touchline ban for the return match. Juventus face Ajax in their quarter-final.  A statement confirmed: “Following a disciplinary investigation conducted by a Uefa ethics and disciplinary inspector, in accordance with the Article 55 of the Uefa Disciplinary Regulations, disciplinary proceedings have been opened following the Champions League round of 16 match between Juventus and [Atlético Madrid](https://www.theguardian.com/football/atleticomadrid).”


theguardianuk--2019-04-04--Amateur cup final abandoned as team walk off after player suffers racial abuse

Amateur cup final abandoned as team walk off after player ‘suffers racial abuse’

An investigation has begun after the abandonment of an amateur cup final in Leicester at which a supporter allegedly made racist remarks towards a player.  The incident occurred on Wednesday after the Wymeswold Reserves striker Linford Harris was sent off during the 78th minute of the Saturday Vase final against Cosby United Development.  According to reports, Harris was then racially abused by a fan, which led to a confrontation between the players and some of the 200-strong crowd. The Wymeswold players walked off in protest and the referee abandoned the game.  [In a post on Twitter](https://twitter.com/Linfordharris1/status/1113590890357043206), Harris wrote: “So sorry to witness and suffer such racism in this day and age, thanks everyone for the support. Appreciate everyone standing behind me. WE ARE ALL EQUAL. #SayNoToRacism.”  The Leicestershire & Rutland County FA is investigating the incident and urged any witnesses to submit a statement. “We ask anyone who was present at the match to provide their observations by email to info@leicestershirefa.com. Leicestershire & Rutland County FA will investigate all allegations related to this game and take the necessary discipline action. As this is now an ongoing investigation we will not be able to comment any further.”  Gregg North, who was at the match at Holmes Park in Whetstone to support his cousin Harris, told BBC Leicester the incident had been caused by “one mindless individual”. “The stewards kept the guy who started the racism in the ground and tried to turf the other people out,” he said.  After the match, [Cosby tweeted](https://twitter.com/CosbyUnitedFC/status/1113673585988710400): “The club will support the FA in anyway possible. This club does not condone racism. Comments/abuse made to the club overnight that the individual is a Cosby supporter are wide of the mark.”  The Fiver: sign up and get our daily football email.  Crowd abuse has been a problem at all levels of the game throughout the season, with the sports minister, Mims Davies, convening a summit with football leaders to discuss how to root out racist, homophobic and antisemitic chanting.  This latest incident came barely 24 hours after the FA chairman, Greg Clarke – citing the monkey chanting directed at England’s players in Montenegro – had urged a lowering of Uefa’s threshold [to allow referees to take players off the pitch](https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/apr/02/fa-greg-clarke- uefa-referees-power-action-racism) if they heard racist abuse.  The result of the game, which Cosby were winning 1-0, will be determined after the end of disciplinary proceedings.


theindependent--2019-01-15--Chelsea face potential stadium closure as Uefa open disciplinary proceedings over allegations of rac

Chelsea face potential stadium closure as Uefa open disciplinary proceedings over allegations of racist chanting

Uefa have opened disciplinary proceedings against Chelsea over allegations of racist chanting at their Europa League match against Vidi in Budapest in December, with the club facing the prospect of having at least part of Stamford Bridge closed for an upcoming European fixture.  European football's governing body announced the news on Tuesday morning, based on "the report submitted by the Uefa Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector commissioned to conduct an investigation".  Chelsea’s travelling support were heard chanting antisemitic abuse just three minutes into the match in Hungary, with the club releasing a statement immediately afterward condemning the small section of “brainless” fans who were shaming the club.  The club's supporters then came under further scrutiny when a photograph emerged of a group of fans outside the stadium before the game began holding a flag bearing Nazi insignia. Chelsea insisted the flag did not come into the stadium.  The flag incident came just six days after four Chelsea supporters were suspended indefinitely by the club pending further investigation internally, as well as by the Metropolitan Police, after being caught on camera allegedly racially abusing Raheem Sterling.  Chelsea chairman Bruce Buck condemned the actions of "a few mindless individuals at some of our recent matches" and added the club "will not rest until we have eliminated all forms of discrimination from our club".  Uefa's Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body will decide on the Stamford Bridge club's punishment at ts next meeting on 28 February, but Chelsea could face a stadium closure according to Uefa rules.  The Article 14 regulation also makes clear that if found guilty the club will face “a minimum partial stadium closure” at Stamford Bridge in future European games.  “If a club’s supporters engage in the behaviour that insults the human dignity of a person or group of persons on whatever grounds, including skin colour, race, religion or ethnic origin, the member association or club responsible is punished with a minimum of a partial stadium closure.”  Keep up to date with all the latest transfer news, rumours and done deals throughout the January window


theindependent--2019-03-18--Cristiano Ronaldo Juventus forward faces Champions league quarter-final ban after Uefa charge him o

Cristiano Ronaldo: Juventus forward faces Champions league quarter-final ban after Uefa charge him over celebration

Cristiano Ronaldo could miss the Champions League quarter-finals after being charged with “improper conduct” by Uefa during Juventus’ 3-0 second-leg victory over Atletico Madrid.  After completing his stunning hat-trick to overturn the deficit in the round-of-16 tie, Ronaldo repeatedly thrust his hips in the direction of the crowd in celebration.  The ‘cojones’ celebration was thought to be a jibe at Atletico boss Diego Simeone, who celebrated in similar fashion after Atletico's first-leg victory.  In a statement, Uefa said: “Following a disciplinary investigation conducted by a UEFA Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector, in accordance with the Article 55 of the UEFA Disciplinary Regulations (DR), disciplinary proceedings have been opened following the UEFA Champions League round of 16 match between Juventus Football Club and Club Atlético de Madrid, played on 12 March in Italy.”  The Uefa Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body will reach a verdict on what action is to be taken against the Portuguese talisman on March 21 at their next meeting.  However, Uefa chose to fine Simeone £18,000, rather than serve the manager with a touchline ban, meaning Juventus will expect the striker to receive a similar punishment.  After trailing Atletico 2-0 in the tie, Ronaldo spearheaded a famous victory for Max Allegri’s side in Turin, scoring twice with towering headers before converting a penalty in the game’s dying embers to send Juventus through to the quarter-finals.  The Italian champions, who lost their first game of the Serie A season on the weekend against Genoa, face Ajax in the next round after the Dutch side’s historic victory over Real Madrid.  The first-leg takes place at the Amsterdam Arena on April 10.  Keep up to date with all the latest news with expert comment and analysis from our award-winning writers


theindependent--2019-03-22--Neymar PSG forward charged with for aposinsulting and molesting actsapos against referee during

Neymar: PSG forward charged with for 'insulting and molesting acts' against referee during Manchester United defeat

Neymar has been charged with “insulting and/or molesting acts” after Paris Saint-Germain’s Champions League elimination by Manchester United.  The Brazilian forward reacted furiously to PSG's 3-1 defeat at the Parc des Princes on Wednesday 6 march, having missed the match itself through injury, and after coming down to the sideline to celebrate what he hoped would be the result that carried the Parisians into the Champions League quarter-finals, he could only watch on as Marcus Rashford's injury-time penalty instead knocked them out.  Neymar responded by attempting to confront referee Damir Skomina in fury at his decision to award the penalty after a Video Assistant Referee review, and after being restrained from the referee's office, he posted a foul-mouthed instagram message to vent his rage.  “This is a disgrace, they put four people that know nothing about football in charge of looking at the replay for VAR," he wrote in an Instagram story. "There is no penalty. How can it be a handball when it hits his back?! Go f**k yourselves!”  Uefa have now opened proceedings against Neymar after charging the world's most-expensive player for his actions, with a hearing set to take place at a later date to decide any punishment.  A statement issued by Uefa on Friday read: “Disciplinary proceedings have been opened following the Uefa Champions League Round of 16 second leg match between Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester United FC (1-3), played on 6 March in France:  “The case will be dealt with by the Uefa Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body with the date of the hearing yet to be confirmed.”  Keep up to date with all the latest news with expert comment and analysis from our award-winning writers


theindependent--2019-04-05--aposWe wonapost tolerate itapos - Footballer racially abused in amateur cup final in Leicester

'We won't tolerate it' - Footballer racially abused in amateur cup final in Leicester criticises The FA

The footballer alleged to have been racially abused during an abandoned amateur cup final in Leicester has criticised the match officials for their handling of the incident.  The Saturday Vase Final between FC Wymeswold reserves and Cosby United Development on Wednesday night was halted after 78 minutes.  Wymeswold striker Linford Harris says he was racially abused by a spectator when he was shown a red card, leading to a confrontation between the players and some of the 200-strong crowd present at Holmes Park, Whetstone.  Harris has since criticised the referee and linesmen for failing to take control of the situation.  “The FA [officials] didn’t do anything to help the situation at all,” he told The Independent. “Wymeswold ended the game and walked off the pitch as we won’t tolerate it. The officials didn’t know what to do, they heard the chants and did nothing about it.  “The linesman said to the abuser that it’s bang out of order and that was that.  “There was a lot of pushing and shoving and he was seen on video still trying to chase my family members down and was being held back.  “So [they] didn’t remove him [from the premises], he was free to do what he liked.”  Gregg North, who was in attendance to support his cousin Harris, told BBC Leicester the incident had been caused by “one mindless individual”.  “The stewards kept the guy who started the racism in the ground and tried to turf the other people out,” he said.  Harris said he no longer wanted to play, but also thanked fans and players for their support.  “So sorry to witness and suffer such racism in this day and age, thanks everyone for the support,” he said on Twitter. “Appreciate everyone standing behind me. WE ARE ALL EQUAL. #SayNoToRacism.”  Wymeswold player Reece Lewin said he was also sent off after confronting the man who made the alleged comment.  “I feel a bit disappointed by the red card,” he told the BBC.  The Leicestershire & Rutland County FA is investigating the incident and urged any witnesses to submit a statement.  “We ask anyone who was present at the match to provide their observations by email to info@leicestershirefa.com,” the organisation said.  “Leicestershire & Rutland County FA will investigate all allegations related to this game and take the necessary discipline action.”  After the match, Cosby tweeted: “The club will support the FA in anyway possible. This club does not condone racism. Comments/abuse made to the club overnight that the individual is a Cosby supporter are wide of the mark.”  The result of the game, which Cosby were winning 1-0, will be determined after the end of disciplinary proceedings.


theindependent--2019-09-19--Peter Beardsley banned Former Newcastle academy coach suspended for racism after calling black play

Peter Beardsley banned: Former Newcastle academy coach suspended for racism after calling black players 'monkeys'

Former Newcastle United academy coach Peter Beardsley has been suspended for 32 weeks from all football for making racist comments including calling black players “monkeys”.  The punishment relates to Beardsley using “abusive and/or insulting words” towards one or more black players during a team building trip to the outdoor adventure park Go Ape while the former England international was in charge of the Under-23 team.  The FA confirmed Beardsley said “you should be used to that” to one or more black players of African origin during the trip in October 2017. However, it insisted he was not racist, claiming he had merely committed an act of racist discrimination.  The 58-year-old was also found guilty of calling a player of black African origin a “monkey” during a game of head tennis. While the former Newcastle striker also questioned the legitimacy of a black player’s age by stating “it’s cos you’re not 18”.  The Regulatory Commission also found that Beardsley’s allegation that three black players had made up the allegations motivated by financial greed “did not have a shred of evidence”, while he also did not apologise or withdraw the allegations.  A statement from The FA read: “An independent Regulatory Commission has suspended Peter Beardsley from all football and football-related activity for a period of 32 weeks until 29 April 2020.  “The FA alleged that Mr Beardsley used abusive and/or insulting words, which were contrary to FA Rule E3(1) and constituted an “Aggravated Breach” under FA Rule E3(2) due to reference of ethnic origin and/or colour and/or race and/or nationality, while employed as a coach of the club’s Under-23s team.  “All three breaches of FA Rule E3 were denied but subsequently found proven based upon the results and findings of Newcastle United FC’s disciplinary proceedings.”  The FA also confirmed Beardsley has been ordered to complete a face-to-face education course.


theindependent--2019-10-15--Bulgaria Football Union charged by Uefa over 'racist behaviour' by supporters at England g

Bulgaria Football Union charged by Uefa over 'racist behaviour' by supporters at England game

Uefa has opened disciplinary proceedings against Bulgaria and England following Monday's Euro 2020 qualifier in Sofia.  Charges against the Bulgarian Football Union include the racist behaviour, throwing of objects and disruption of a national anthem by home supporters, and showing replays on a giant screen.  The English Football Association has also been charged with disruption of a national anthem, as well as providing an insufficient number of travelling stewards.  According to a Uefa statement, the case will be dealt with by the governing body's control, ethics and disciplinary body, with the date of the meeting yet to be confirmed.


theindependent--2019-10-16--Bulgaria vs England racism: Six men detained after racist abuse during Euro 2020 qualifier

Bulgarian police said on Wednesday they had detained six people in connection with the racist abuse faced by England’s black players during a Euro 2020 qualifier in Sofia with more arrests likely.  England thrashed Bulgaria football 6-0 on Monday to hand the hosts their heaviest ever home defeat but the match was marred by a section of home supporters taunting the visiting players with Nazi salutes and monkey chants.  “Six people were detained so far and we’re searching for three more as we have collected evidence about their involvement in the incidents,” Senior Commissioner Georgi Hadzhiev, director of the Sofia police department, said.  Hadzhiev added that the operation was still underway and they were trying to identify more suspects.  The match on Monday at the Vasil Levski stadium was temporarily halted by the Croatian referee under a three-step protocol devised by European soccer governing body UEFA.  Uefa said it had opened disciplinary proceedings against Bulgaria on a number of charges including racist behaviour and the throwing of objects.


thesun--2019-01-15--Uefa launch disciplinary proceedings against Chelsea over racist chants against Vidi

CHELSEA fans face being banned from an away game in Europe after Uefa officially opened a case against the Blues.  Anti-semitic chants by Chelsea fans during the [Europa League clash at Hungarian side Vidi](https://www.thesun.co.uk/sport/football/7988615/chelsea- fans-pose-with-nazi-flag-racism-shame/) were reported by Uefa’s match-day delegate.  ![ Some Chelsea fans have been accused of bringing 'shame' on the club]()  Reuters  Some Chelsea fans have been accused of bringing 'shame' on the club  Chelsea blast fans for ‘anti-Semitic’ chants at Europa League clash just five days after Raheem Sterling was allegedly racially abused  Stamford Bridge officials condemned the fans they said had “shamed the club” in the immediate aftermath of the incident, slamming supporters who “can't summon the brainpower to comprehend” the club’s anti-racism message.  But now [Chelsea](https://www.thesun.co.uk/sport/football/team/1196660/chelsea/) face a fine and potential away-day stadium ban following Uefa’s decision.  In a statement, [Uefa](https://www.thesun.co.uk/topic/uefa/) said the case had been opened “based on the report submitted by the UEFA Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector commissioned to conduct an investigation”.  Nyon-based chiefs cited the “alleged racist incidents that occurred” and added: “UEFA has announced that disciplinary proceedings have been instigated against Chelsea FC.”  ![ Chelsea drew 2-2 in Budapest but the racism storm overshadowed the game]()  EPA  Chelsea drew 2-2 in Budapest but the racism storm overshadowed the game  ![ Chairman Bruce Buck has vowed to kick racism out of the club]()  PA:Press Association  Chairman Bruce Buck has vowed to kick racism out of the club  Maurizio Sarri blasts ‘stupid people’ as Chelsea fans are accused of racist chanting again - this time at Watford  The case will be heard in Nyon on February 28, after Chelsea have played their[ last-32 clash with Swedish side Malmo](https://www.thesun.co.uk/sport/football/7998523/chelsea-malmo-europa- league-draw-fans-delighted/) and a week before the scheduled next round.  Uefa have begun clamping down harder on fan misbehaviour over the past year with a series of bans put in place.  And it means Chelsea supporters may have to wait until the outcome of the hearing before booking flights, hotels and tickets for a potential last 16 date in case they find they will not be allowed into the ground.


thesun--2019-02-08--Cardiff risk transfer ban if they refuse to cough up first instalment of 15m Emiliano Sala fee to N

Cardiff risk transfer ban if they refuse to cough up first instalment of £15m Emiliano Sala fee to Nantes

CARDIFF risk being hit with a transfer ban if they refuse to pay Nantes the first instalment of the £15million owed for the signing of Emiliano Sala.  The Premier League side may face disciplinary action from Fifa if they don't pay the French club the money they were expecting.  ![ Cardiff face a transfer ban if they fail to pay the first instalment of their Sala fee]()  Splash News  Cardiff face a transfer ban if they fail to pay the first instalment of their Sala fee  [Sala's plane crashed over the Channel](https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/8269324 /emiliano-sala-plane-crash-search/) last month with the Argentine en route to Wales.  Last night, it was tragically confirmed the body pulled from the plane crash wreck was Sala - with [tributes pouring in for the footballer](https://www.thesun.co.uk/sport/football/8380446/emiliano-sala- football-unites-in-grief-tributes-body-found/).  Earlier this week, [Nantes threatened Cardiff with legal action](https://www.thesun.co.uk/sport/football/8372995/cardiff-threat-legal- action-nantes-5m-sala-payment/) if they [fail to pay the initial £5m sum](https://www.thesun.co.uk/sport/8368547/emiliano-sala-nantes-cardiff- transfer-fee-payments/).  The Welsh side received a legal letter on Tuesday in which the Ligue 1 side claimed they will take them to court if they withhold payment.  Emiliano Sala was involved in a tragic plane crash while travelling to Cardiff  ![ Nantes have threatened Cardiff with legal action if they fail to pay]()  AFP  Nantes have threatened Cardiff with legal action if they fail to pay  And now Fifa have stepped in and threatened to pull the privilege of being able to make any new signings if they don't cough up in the next ten days.  The two clubs agreed on a £15m deal on January 19, with the transfer certificate registered two days later.  That gives Cardiff until the end of next week to part company with £5m or risk disciplinary proceedings.  According to Fifa rules, the creditor "must have put the debtor club in default in writing and have granted a deadline of at least ten days for the debtor club to comply with its financial obligation".  Cardiff under threat of legal action as Nantes demand £5m Sala payment within ten-days  Emiliano Sala’s former club Nantes score in 9th minute and fans see it as a sign their old No9 is ‘watching over’ them  Nantes of course have already done that, with Fifa set to mull over Cardiff's potential punishment.  While a transfer ban is the worst case scenario on the disciplinary front, the Bluebirds could instead be given a warning or fined.  Reports claim Cardiff took out insurance for Sala after completing his big- money move to England.  The top-flight club have a policy of £16m per player - which covers the £15m transfer fee, but not his £2.5m-a-year pay packet.  Since last night's horrendous news of Sala's body being found came to light, the football world has united to pay their respects.  Kylian Mbappe, Alexandre Lacazette and Benjamin Mendy led the tributes online after Dorset Police's statement.  A statement posted on the Cardiff website read: "It is with great sadness that we report the following statement, issued on February 7 2019 by the Dorset Police.  Cardiff boss Neil Warnock has been hit hard by the tragic news of Sala Emiliano Sala's body was tragically confirmed to be aboard the crashed plane  "'The body brought to Portland Port today, Thursday 7 February 2019, has been formally identified by HM Coroner for Dorset as that of professional footballer [Emiliano Sala](http://www.thesun.co.uk/who/emiliano-sala).  "'The families of Mr Sala and the pilot David Ibbotson have been updated with this news and will continue to be supported by specially-trained family liaison officers.'  "We offer our most heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the family of Emiliano. He and David will forever remain in our thoughts."  Meanwhile, World Cup winner Mbappe wrote: "RIP EMI."  Arsenal star Lacazette posted a photo of Sala with the message "1990-2019 RIP."  Man City star Mendy posted a photo of Sala celebrating when in action for Nantes and wrote: "RIP."  Cardiff defender Sol Bamba tweeted: "Tragic. May you rest in peace."  Chelsea's Batshuayi, on loan at Crystal Palace, wrote: "Resting in peace."  Emiliano Sala - Crowdfunded team led by David Mearns discover the location of the crashed aircraft, before the AAIB use a camera to confirm the identity of the plane


thesun--2019-02-15--Chelsea hit with two Uefa charges for fans throwing missiles and a pitch invasion during clash with

Chelsea hit with two Uefa charges for fans throwing missiles and a pitch invasion during clash with Malmo

CHELSEA have been hit by two more Uefa charges for their fans Europa League misbehaviour.  The Blues are anxiously awaiting the February 28 hearing into the racist chants by supporters in their group stage game at Hungarian outfit Vidi.  ![ Chelsea have been charged by Uefa for their fans behaviour in Malmo]()  Getty - Contributor  Chelsea have been charged by Uefa for their fans behaviour in Malmo  ![ Chelsea have also been charged with fans invading the pitch]()  Reuters  Chelsea have also been charged with fans invading the pitch  Chelsea risk being hit by a partial stadium closure at Stamford Bridge or a ban on fans travelling to a future away game.  But now the club looks set for a further fine after a minor pitch invasion and fans throwing objects onto the pitch in the [2-1 win at Malmo](https://www.thesun.co.uk/sport/football/8431319/malmo-1-chelsea-2 -europa-league-report/).  Uefa have confirmed the charges will be heard on March 28, although the offences are relatively minor.  They said: "Disciplinary proceedings have been opened following the UEFA Europa League Round of 32 match between Malmo FF and Chelsea FC (1-2), played on 14 February in Sweden.  ![ Missiles were also thrown on the pitch]()  Getty - Contributor  Missiles were also thrown on the pitch  ![ Ross Barkley and Olivier Giroud were on target for Chelsea]()  Andreas Hillergren  Ross Barkley and Olivier Giroud were on target for Chelsea  "Charges against Chelsea FC: - Throwing of objects - Art. 16 (2) DR - Field invasions by supporters - Art. 16 (2) DR  "These cases will be dealt with by the UEFA Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body on 28 March."  Incidents in Hungary and now Sweden come off the back of a Chelsea fan allegedly hurling racist abuse at Raheem Sterling during their home clash with Manchester City in December.  Ross Barkley and Oliver Giroud were on target for Chelsea in Sweden with the return leg in West London on Thursday.  Before that, Sarri's men are in Fa Cup action at home to Manchester United on Monday night.  Chelsea vs Manchester United: How to watch, kick-off time, live stream, team news ahead of mouthwatering FA Cup 5th round


thesun--2019-08-01--Chelsea at war with Uefa and Barcelona after stewards baton attack on fans as Blues supporters cl

Chelsea at war with Uefa and Barcelona after stewards’ baton ‘attack’ on fans as Blues supporters cleared of wrongdoing

CHELSEA have gone to war with Barcelona and Uefa in defence of their travelling fans.  Chairman Bruce Buck has even led a delegation of [Stamford Bridge](https://www.thesun.co.uk/sport/football/team/1196660/chelsea/) top brass to confront European football’s governing body over an incident at the [Nou Camp](https://www.thesun.co.uk/sport/football/team/1232720/barcelona/) last March.  ![ Chelsea appealed for information from fans after reports of batons being used]()  3  Chelsea appealed for information from fans after reports of batons being usedCredit: Social Media - Refer to Source  ![ Colin Twyman was one of the Chelsea supporters caught up in the incident, suffering a fractured cheekbone]()  3  Colin Twyman was one of the Chelsea supporters caught up in the incident, suffering a fractured cheekboneCredit: Twitter  ![ Stamford Bridge chairman Bruce Buck led a delegation to Uefa as Chelsea were unhappy with the outcome of the investigation]()  3  Stamford Bridge chairman Bruce Buck led a delegation to Uefa as Chelsea were unhappy with the outcome of the investigationCredit: Social Media - Refer to Source  [Chelsea](https://www.thesun.co.uk/sport/football/team/1196660/chelsea/) [lost 3-0](https://www.thesun.co.uk/sport/football/5812926/barcelona-3-chelsea-0 -messi-champions-league-result/) in a Champions League match marred by incidents in which numerous visiting supporters clashed with baton-wielding Barcelona security personnel.  The Premier League club was incensed when they were charged over the behaviour of their fans while the host club got off scot-free despite claims of brutality by Spanish stewards.  Chelsea have finally won a battle to clear their name but still want [Barcelona](https://www.thesun.co.uk/sport/football/team/1232720/barcelona/) to be censured for their heavy-handed approach on big European nights.  A statement from Chelsea read: “Before and after the game a series of serious incidents took place, including Chelsea fans being attacked with batons by FC Barcelona security staff.  ### 'EXTREMELY DISAPPOINTED'  “The incidents resulted in injuries to a large number of our fans, with many others feeling that their safety was endangered.  “The Club originally faced charges for the behaviour of its own fans, however, following an appeal process, we are pleased to confirm that Uefa have concluded that Chelsea supporters’ conduct in approaching and leaving the stadium did not violate Uefa rules.  “Notwithstanding this, Chelsea is extremely disappointed by the decision of the Uefa Appeal Body to reject our request that disciplinary proceedings be opened against FC Barcelona.  “On 18 June 2019, a senior delegation led by Chairman Bruce Buck met with Uefa executives in Switzerland to discuss measures that could be put in place to help ensure that lessons are learned from safety incidents at matches in Uefa competitions.“  [Tottenham](https://www.thesun.co.uk/sport/football/team/1196652/tottenham- hotspur/) fans [claimed they suffered similar rough treatment from Barcelona officials](https://www.thesun.co.uk/sport/football/9103433/spurs-furious- barcelona-fine-stewards-batttering-fans/) when their team played at the Nou Camp nine months after Chelsea’s visit in December last year.  Chelsea took a large number of witness statements to help win their case which comes two days after the club banned supporter Colin Wing for life for racially abusing Manchester City forward Raheem Sterling.  Chelsea were also investigated by UEFA last season following claims their supporters chanted racist songs at a Europa League game in Hungary but no charges were brought.  Last weekend [new Chelsea boss Frank Lampard](https://www.thesun.co.uk/who /frank-lampard/) appealed to fans to stop singing a song in his honour which also referred to 'pikeys' - members of the travelling community - in a dig at rivals West Ham.  Chelsea fan is jokingly pushed off tube train after annoying passengers with chants


thesun--2019-09-19--Peter Beardsley banned from football for eight months after racially abusing Newcastle academy kids

Peter Beardsley banned from football for eight months after racially abusing Newcastle academy kids and calling one a ‘monkey’

PETER BEARDSLEY has been banned from football for eight months after being found guilty of racially taunting footballers at the Newcastle academy.  Former England star Beardsley, 58, called one player a "monkey" while questioning the age of another African hopeful in the Newcastle youth system.  ![ Peter Beardsley was sacked by Newcastle and has now been hit by a 32-week ban for making racist comments to players]()  2  Peter Beardsley was sacked by Newcastle and has now been hit by a 32-week ban for making racist comments to playersCredit: � North News & Pictures ltd  The ex-Liverpool and Everton star also made a joke claiming a black player "should be used to that" while the squad were attending a Go Ape team building session.  The Football Association have found him guilty of the three charges and hit Beardsley with a 32-week suspension from football, and all related activities.  In evidence, one anonymous player said: "Last season I wasn’t in U18 squad and the next day he was quizzing me about not being in the squad, and he said ‘That’s because you are not 18’.  "I took this to be a reference to players of African origin forging papers regarding their age, and I took it because I am big, that I was older, the same was said to [another player].”  Talking about the incident at the Go Ape tree climbing centre, another player said in a statement: “When we were at Go Ape he said to us ‘we should be used to that’ which I took to be a reference to climbing the trees.  > ‘I’m not being funny' is all he ever says after he makes a comment.  >  > Witness statement  "But Peter said ‘I’m not being funny’ and tried to explain it was a reference to climbing mountains, but at the time we weren’t climbing mountains, we were climbing a tree.  "‘I’m not being funny' is all he ever says after he makes a comment.”  In his own witness statement, Beardsley tried to defend himself.  He said: “I remember making a comment to one of them, I asked one of them if they had anything else like this in South Africa, and he said ‘we just go outdoors’ referring to him and his brother.  "At that point I might have said ‘You’ll enjoy this’”.  The third charge related to an allegation he made a monkey joke about another black player in his squad.  One player witness statement read: “We were playing in the gym, and one of the black players was dancing around and Peter made a monkey reference, but you could take that one or two ways.  "I can’t remember exactly [what terminology was used], but off the top of my head, it was something like ‘Look at [A] being a monkey’”  An FA statement said: "The Football Association [The FA] charged Mr Beardsley with three breaches of FA Rule E3 following the conclusion of initial disciplinary proceedings by Newcastle United FC into allegations of misconduct.  "The FA alleged that Mr Beardsley used abusive and/or insulting words, which were contrary to FA Rule E3(1) and constituted an “Aggravated Breach” under FA Rule E3(2) due to reference of ethnic origin and/or colour and/or race and/or nationality, while employed as a coach of the club’s Under-23s team.  ![ Peter Beardsley was one of the most gifted England players of his generation]()  2  Peter Beardsley was one of the most gifted England players of his generationCredit: Getty - Contributor  "All three breaches of FA Rule E3 were denied but subsequently found proven based upon the results and findings of Newcastle United FC’s disciplinary proceedings.  "Mr Beardsley has also been ordered to complete a face-to-face education course."  The ban leaves Beardsley's reputation within the game in tatters and he will find it hard to find employment in the future.  Newcastle sacked him from his role with the under-23 side in March after concluding their own inquiries into the allegations.  In a statement released on his behalf by his solicitors, Beardsley spoke of his disappointment at the decision, but vowed to return to football.  It said: "Peter Beardsley is very surprised and disappointed by the decision of the Regulatory Commission.    ## SERIOUS FLAWS  "It was almost impossible for Peter to clear his name because of the serious flaws and contamination of evidence that occurred in the disciplinary process before Newcastle United and by the unusual fact that The FA Rules put the burden of proof on him to prove his innocence in the proceedings.  "After a long process which has been unnecessarily protracted, Peter feels vindicated that the Commission has expressly found that he is not a racist.  "Surprisingly, Newcastle United did not provide the relevant training and education for Peter. Peter has always been willing and eager to attend all and any training organised by the club.  "With no avenue left open to him to clear his name, Peter has no choice but to acknowledge the decision and now looks forward to moving on with his life and resuming his career.  "He shall respect the sanction imposed and looks forward to returning to work in football, which has been his life, at the end of his suspension."  It completely changes the legacy of a player who was one of England's most gifted footballer in the late 1980s and early 1990s.  The life-long Geordie played 59 times for England, featuring in the World Cup squads in 1986 and 1990, scoring nine goals for his country.  On the international stage he formed a devastating partnership with Gary Lineker which helped lead the side to the semi-finals in 1990.  As a club player, Beardsley enjoyed his best years playing for Liverpool following his move from Newcastle.  At Anfield he play an integral role in one of the greatest club sides English football has seen, helping to win two First Division titles.  In 2007 he was inducted into the English football Hall of Fame as a mark of his achievements as a player.  Newcastle under-23s boss Peter Beardsley leaves St. James' Park after being suspended by club as racism and bullying investigation continues


thetelegraph--2019-05-03--Brentford awarded three points after Football League confirms clash against crisis-club Bolton will

Brentford awarded three points after Football League confirms clash against crisis-club Bolton will not be played

Bolton Wanderers face disciplinary proceedings for misconduct after it was announced that their rearranged home fixture against Brentford would not be played.  The Sky Bet Championship match, originally scheduled for last Saturday, was postponed as unpaid Bolton players went on strike, and rearranged for next Tuesday.  But statements on the official websites of both clubs and the Football League (EFL) on Friday said that Bolton’s Safety Advisory Group had issued a prohibition notice preventing the match from taking place and that it would not be played at a future date.  Brentford are being awarded three points on the basis of a 1-0 win, which moves them up from 15th to 12th in the table.  The EFL said Bolton, who are second-bottom of the table and already relegated, were guilty of misconduct and that there would be disciplinary proceedings taken against them.  The EFL’s statement said: “There is no provision under EFL Regulations to direct clubs to play at a later date than four days past the conclusion of the season and, as a result, it has been determined that Brentford will be awarded the three points on the basis of a 1-0 victory.  “As a consequence, Bolton Wanderers is now deemed to be guilty of misconduct by the EFL which will result in disciplinary proceedings against the club being taken at an appropriate time.”


thetelegraph--2019-07-24--Mamadou Sakho sues World Anti-Doping Agency for 13m over drug test blunder

Mamadou Sakho sues World Anti-Doping Agency for £13m over 'drug test blunder'

Mamadou Sakho is suing the world anti-doping agency for £13 million claiming a drug-test blunder torpedoed his career at Liverpool.  Sakho, 29, was suspended from football in April 2016 after testing positive for a fat-burning substance following a Europa League tie with Manchester United.  The provisional 30-day suspension meant the France international missed out on Liverpool's Europa League Final defeat to Sevilla and, he claims, cost him a team place at the Euro 2016 tournament, London's High Court heard.  He was eventually cleared in disciplinary proceedings before Uefa, with the body finding that the substance - higenamine - was not actually on the banned list.  The Crystal Palace defender is now suing for £13m, with his lawyers arguing that his earnings as a player and the worth of his personal brand have been reduced by his move away from Liverpool.  But the World Anti-Doping Agency (Wada) denies it is responsible for his transfer from the European Champions which it says was in reality caused by "disciplinary issues" and a "personality clash" with Jurgen Klopp.  In a hearing at the High Court, Mr Sakho's lawyers told Master Victoria McCloud that his suspension in 2016 had dealt a massive hit to his earnings.  He missed games with the France team, had to foot lawyers' and scientists' bills and, ultimately, saw the end of his career with Liverpool and transfer to Crystal Palace, said his barrister, Stuart Ritchie QC.


eveningstandard--2019-02-07--Crystal Palace star Wilfried Zaha banned for further match and handed 10000 fine by FA

Crystal Palace star Wilfried Zaha banned for further match and handed £10,000 fine by FA

Crystal Palace forward Wilfried Zaha has been hit with a one-match suspension and fined £10,000 by the Football Association.  Zaha was charged with improper conduct after applauding referee Andre Marriner following his dismissal in January’s 1-1 draw at Southampton.  He served a one-match suspension during Saturday’s 2-0 win over Fulham for the red card, but now faces a second game on the sidelines.  However, the Ivory Coast international could be available for Saturday’s match against West Ham as the suspension is not effective while the player considers his right of appeal.  A FA statement said: “Wilfried Zaha has been suspended for one match following an Independent Regulatory Commission hearing yesterday [06 February 2019]. He was also fined £10,000.  “The suspension is not currently effective whilst the player considers his right of appeal. The Crystal Palace forward accepted a charge of improper conduct, which followed his behaviour after a second-half dismissal during the game against Southampton on 30 January 2019.”


eveningstandard--2019-11-15--Myles Garrett suspension: Cleveland Browns star banned indefinitely after hitting Mason Rudolph with

Myles Garrett suspension: Cleveland Browns star banned indefinitely after hitting Mason Rudolph with helmet

Cleveland Browns star Myles Garrett has been suspended indefinitely following his actions in a shocking incident that marred Thursday night's win over the Pittsburgh Steelers, the NFL have confirmed.  Defensive end Garrett attracted widespread condemnation after ripping the helmet off Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph - whom had taken exception to a late hit before grappling ensued - during the closing stages of the game and striking him over the head with it.  In the ensuing brawl, Steelers center Maurkice Pouncey landed several punches and appeared to attempt to kick Garrett in the head.  Former no1 draft pick Garrett - fined an undisclosed amount - will now miss at least the rest of the 2019 season and post-season, should the Browns make it that far, while Pouncey will sit out Pittsburgh's next three matches against the Cincinnati Bengals, Browns and Arizona Cardinals.  Cleveland defensive tackle Larry Ogunjobi has also been banned for one game for shoving Rudolph to the ground after the skirmish, which came eight seconds from the end of the Browns' 21-7 win over their AFC North rivals at FirstEnergy Stadium.  "Browns DE Myles Garrett has been suspended indefinitely," the NFL confirmed on Friday. "Browns DT Larry Ogunjobi has been suspended one game.  "Steelers C Maurkice Pouncey has been suspended three games. In addition, Steelers and Browns organizations each fined $250,000."  The league added: "Garrett is suspended indefinitely, at minimum for the remainder of the regular season and postseason, and he must meet with the Commissioner's office prior to a decision on his reinstatement."  The Browns followed up with their own statement, in which owners Dee and Jimmy Haslam labelled Garrett's actions as "completely unacceptable" and did not dispute the punishment handed down.  “We are extremely disappointed in what transpired last evening at the end of our game," the statement read. "There is no place for that in football and that is not reflective of the core values we strive for as an organization.  "We sincerely apologize to Mason Rudolph and the Pittsburgh Steelers. Myles Garrett has been a good teammate and member of our organization and community for the last three years but his actions last night were completely unacceptable.  "We understand the consequences from the league for his actions.”


pinknewsuk--2019-01-04--Chelsea fan banned from matches for three years over homophobic abuse

Signup to receive a daily roundup of the top LGBT+ news stories from around the world  A Chelsea fan has been banned from attending football matches for three years after admitting shouting homophobic abuse.  George Bradley, 20, was fined £965 and handed a ban by Brighton Magistrates’ Court after admitting a charge of using threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour to cause harassment, alarm or distress.  The football fan was accused of homophobic conduct during the December 16 match between Chelsea F.C. and Brighton & Hove Albion F.C.at Brighton’s Amex Stadium.  In a statement, a spokesperson for Brighton & Hove Albion said: “We would like to thank Sussex Police for their assistance in dealing with this unsavoury incident, and we are very pleased with the outcome.  “It underlines both their and our commitment to a zero tolerance policy on any form of abuse from those attending matches at the Amex.  “We would remind all fans that we will not tolerate any form of abusive behaviour at the stadium and will always take the strongest possible action.”  Sussex Police’s football policing officer Darren Balkham added: “This was a great example of the stewarding and policing operation at the stadium taking action when incidents occur.  “Mr Bradley pleaded guilty at the earliest opportunity and accepted his behaviour was not acceptable and this was recognised by the court.  “I would urge any supporter attending the Amex to report these incidents to either a steward or police officer to allow us to take action at the time.”  The town of Brighton is known for its high LGBT+ population, and the football team has frequently faced homophobia from fans of rival teams previously.  Chelsea football club has vowed to take a zero-tolerance approach to discrimination.  However, the club’s manager Maurizio Sarri was previously handed a fine for shouting the slur “faggot” during a match.  Sarri was banned for two games and fined €20,000 following the clash in 2016, when he was managing Italian club Napoli.  The 59-year-old sought to distance himself from the incident when he joined Chelsea in July 2018, saying that “people make mistakes.”  “I think those who know me very well cannot define me in this way,” added Sarri. “I am not homophobic, not sexist, certainly not.”  “I am an extremely open person, and I do not have these kind of problems.”  He continued: “I hope I can show this when I work here, and when I am living here.  “These mistakes were made, yes. But when someone makes a mistake, they must apologise, and accept that some allegations could be made by the press.  “A professional, ethical attitude is very important, more than apologies. I hope you have the chance to know me better. I hope you will forget about this very quickly.”


sputnik--2019-04-12--Chelsea Hooligans Banned From Game for Singing Salah is a Bomber in Vile VIDEO

Chelsea Hooligans Banned From Game for Singing 'Salah is a Bomber' in Vile VIDEO

Three Chelsea fans have been banned from a Europa League match after being filmed singing “Salah is a bomber” while referring to the Liverpool superstar, Egyptian footballer Mo Salah.  READ MORE: Sergio Ramos Reveals He Got Death Threats After Tackle Against Mohamed Salah  Upon becoming aware of the footage, the football club issued a statement, in which it highlighted that it had taken action against the individuals featured in the video:  “Chelsea FC finds all forms of discriminatory behaviour abhorrent and where there is clear evidence of Chelsea season-ticket holders or members involved in such behaviour, we will take the strongest possible action against them. Such individuals are an embarrassment to the vast majority of Chelsea supporters who won’t tolerate them in their club”, the club said in a statement.  Working together with security staff, Chelsea managed to identify some of the hooligans before the game, with three of the six being barred entry into Sinobo Stadium.  READ MORE: 'Looks Like Leo Sayer': Fans Ridicule Statue of Egyptian Striker Mohamed Salah  The 19-second clip, apparently filmed by the protagonists themselves, showed a group of Blues fans in a bar in the Czech capital of Prague chanting the derogatory song about the Muslim player to the tune of “September” by Earth, Wind and Fire.  Liverpool also issued a statement to defend one of its best players and condemn the behaviour as “unadulterated bigotry”, stressing that there’s no place for such conduct either in football or in society as a whole.  “The video circulating online, showing vile discriminatory chant being aimed at one of our players, is dangerous and disturbing. […] Liverpool Football Club believes it is the responsibility of those in positions of authority, following proper process, to act urgently to identify and then punish anyone committing a hate crime”, the club said.  Liverpool FC continued by saying that the club was working with police to “ascertain the facts” around the now-viral video with an eye to identifying the individuals in it.  “In addition, we are working directly with Chelsea Football Club on the matter. We thank them for their condemnation and a commitment to act urgently to identify any individuals responsible”.  The footage has set off a major storm on social media, with people saying that the hooligans should receive a lifetime ban from football matches:  Many have thrashed the individuals involved as “racists”, but noted that Chelsea’s fan base should not be defined by those in the video:  This is not the first time that Mo Salah has been verbally abused by football fans: just two months ago, the Metropolitan police and West Ham United FC launched an investigation into a video in which a supporter can be heard shouting “Salah, you f**king Muslim, f**king Muslim c*nt” at the Liverpool striker.


sputnik--2019-07-30--Chelsea Fan Permanently Banned and Loses Job After Shouting Racial Abuse at Raheem Sterling

Chelsea Football Club have issued a permanent ban against a fan who reportedly launched racial abuse towards Manchester City's Raheem Sterling during a match at Stamford Bridge on 8 December 2018, according to The Independent.  The decision by the club followed a lengthy police investigation into the attack, which also led to the suspension of five supporters.  The club employed a team of lip readers to establish what exactly was said.  No criminal charges have been pressed. The Club explained that the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) investigation was never to determine if a criminal offence had been committed, but instead to establish if there had been a breach of ticketing terms and conditions.  The Club called the behaviour "abhorrent" and offered no reduced punishment for anti-racism classes, reiterating their "zero-tolerance" approach to racism.  The perpetrator is 60-year old suspected former BT-manager called Colin Wing, according to the Daily Mail.  Wing allegedly called Sterling a black c***. In an interview with the Daily Mail, Wing said that he is "deeply ashamed" by his own behaviour.  "But I didn’t call him a black c***, I called him a Manc c***.  He went on to say that he offers an "an unreserved apology."  "Even if it wasn’t racist, it’s not right what I said. Even the swearing is bad – but I got carried away."  "I was completely out of order, but I’ve lost my job and my season ticket now so everybody’s got what they wanted. So why can’t they leave me alone?" he said.  The footage of Colin Wing screaming at Sterling has circulated on the internet, and Sterling received praise for laughing off the abuse.


thedailyrecord--2019-07-04--Hibs fan who punched Hearts goalie at Edinburgh derby banned from football matches

A Hibs supporter who punched the Hearts goalie at an Edinburgh derby has been banned from matches – for the second time.  Edward Harrold, 21, hit Zdenek Zlamal on the nose as the keeper attempted to retrieve the ball from behind his goal at Tynecastle in October.  At Edinburgh Sheriff Court yesterday, Harrold was banned from attending Scottish football matches for 12 months and ordered to carry out 150 hours of unpaid work in the community.  The court heard the thug had served a previous football banning order for possessing smoke bombs at a Hibs match.  Harrold, of Musselburgh, East Lothian, had denied assaulting Zlamal. He was found guilty after a trial last month and returned to court yesterday for sentencing.  Sheriff Alison Stirling said Harrold’s assault had the “potential to create great disturbance” and “provoke crowd fury”.  The Hibs fan’s assault on the Czech international was caught on camera and shown live on BT Sport at the time. Several replays of the clash were shown in court during Harrold’s trial  Defence lawyer Ross Jenkins said Harrold “accepts contact was made (with Zlamal) but that it was minimal”.  The solicitor said Harrold is currently suspended from his employment due to the court case.  Previously, the court heard from Zlamal through an interpreter.  The keeper, 33, said: “I was going to pick the ball up and as I bent over to pick it up, someone hit me to my nose.”


theguardianuk--2019-03-20--Sophie Jones banned for racial abuse and leaves Sheffield United

Sophie Jones has left [Sheffield United](https://www.theguardian.com/football/sheffieldunited) Women after being given a five-match ban for racially abusing an opponent during the Championship game against Tottenham.  In a statement, United said that Jones’s contract had been terminated by “mutual agreement” after she was found guilty of making monkey noises at the Spurs centre-back Renée Hector.  Jones had denied the charges and maintained her innocence throughout. But following a four-week investigation the Football Association ruled that she had broken Rule E1 – using abusive and/or insulting words – and that her behaviour constituted an “aggravated breach” of FA Rule E3 [2], as it included a reference to ethnic origin and/or colour and/or race.  Sheffield United [confirmed that Jones](https://www.sufc.co.uk/women/news/2019/march/statement/), who was also fined £200 and ordered to attend an FA inclusion and diversity workshop, was “disappointed with the FA’s decision”.  “The club works closely with the EFL, the FA and Kick it Out and would like to reiterate that it does not condone racism or any form of discrimination,” it said. “Following dialogue between the club and Jones, and taking into account the length of the suspension, it has been decided that her contract, which was due for review in the summer, will be terminated by mutual agreement.”  The FA confirmed that Jones’s ban will remain in place if and when she joins a new club, whether that is in the UK or abroad.  After the incident on 6 January, Hector immediately alerted the referee and later revealed on Twitter what had occurred. “Such a shame that racism seems to be rising up again in football – I received some monkey noises from an opposition player,” she wrote. “The only reaction was to let the football do the talking and that we did … great start to the year!”  After Wednesday’s verdict, Hector released a statement saying: “There is no place for racism in our game. A zero tolerance policy is imperative in stamping this out from football therefore I welcome this verdict. No one should be subjected to racist abuse on or off the pitch and I felt a responsibility to call it out for what it was.  “I want to now concentrate on the last five games of the FAWC and trying to secure promotion with Spurs. Thank you to everyone who has supported me throughout this process.”


theindependent--2019-01-03--Chelsea fan banned for three years after admitting using homophobic abuse at Brighton

A Chelsea supporter who admitted to using homophobic language in the stands during the club’s away fixture at Brighton on 16 December has been banned for three years.  Twenty-year-old George Bradley pleaded guilty to using threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour to cause harassment, alarm or distress and was also fined £965.  Sussex Police’s football policing officer Darren Balkham said: “This was a great example of the stewarding and policing operation at the stadium taking action when incidents occur.  “I would urge any supporter attending the Amex to report these incidents to either a steward or police officer to allow us to take action at the time.”  The fixture at Brighton, won 2-1 by Chelsea, came after the club condemned a “brainless” section of fans for shaming the club in the wake of four front row supporters being banned from attending matches after they were caught on camera racially abusing Raheem Sterling.  Then, just days later in the Europa League away at MOL Vidi, away supporters were heard chanting antisemitic slurs.   Follow the Independent Sport on Instagram here, for all of the best images, videos and stories from around the sporting world.


theindependent--2019-02-05--Ben Barba banned by NRL over aposphysical altercationapos with partner

Ben Barba banned by NRL over 'physical altercation' with partner

Ben Barba, the reigning Super League Man of Steel award winner, has been banned from playing in Australia’s National Rugby League after officials viewed CCTV footage of him in an alleged “physical altercation” with his partner.  The 29-year-old was sacked by club North Queensland Cowboys last week without playing a match for them, having agreed a move back to the NRL from Super League’s St Helens over the winter.  The club decided to sack Barba over allegations that he struck his partner at a casino in January, stating that he had committed a “significant breach of the terms of his contract”.  The alleged incident is being investigated by Queensland Police, and Barba has not commented on the matter.  The NRL has now followed suit and banned Barba from playing in the Australian league, with England’s Rugby Football League also stating that he is no longer welcome in Super League.  “It’s time for Ben Barba to find a new vocation,” said NRL chief executive Todd Greenberg. "Where we see violence against women we'll act in the strongest terms.  He added: "These decisions affect people's livelihoods. They're big moments and you want to make sure you get them right.  "This is a guy that now loses his livelihood.  "I've had no contact with him and don't plan to. I've reached out to his family."  Addressing the alleged incident itself, Greenberg added: "It was described to me in great detail. When we see violence, and particularly when we see violence against women, we will act and we will act in the strongest terms.  "That message, I thought, had been pretty clear over a significant period of time, but if it hadn't been before it is today.  “Our players have an enormous amount of education and training, they deliver unbelievable things on the field but they have responsibilities off the field and when they make bad decisions, they make mistakes or they break the law they put their livelihood and their career on the line.  "We're going to get tougher and stronger on players that do the wrong thing because we cannot afford the damage it does to our game. We've had some difficulties over this off-season but by and large you look at our playing group and they are doing some spectacular things in our community.  "The game has been damaged significantly over this period of time but rugby league has the ability to shine and to do that we need our players doing everything they can off the field as well as on the field.  "We'll treat every case on its merits but where there is violence and against women it sits at the top of the pile."  Barba has a track record for landing himself in controversy after he was stood down indefinitely in 2013 by the Canterbury Bulldogs due to off-field behaviour. In 2016, Barba failed a drugs test but avoided an immediate ban as he left the sport to join French rugby union side Toulon, though had to serve the suspension when he agreed to return to rugby league with St Helens three months later in May 2017.  He finished the 2018 Super League season as the top try-scorer with 28 tries in 23 appearances, helping Saints to claim the League Leaders’ Shield and claim the Man of Steel award, though the club were eliminated in the semi-finals by Warrington.  Keep up to date with all the latest news with expert comment and analysis from our award-winning writers


theindependent--2019-04-16--Evertonaposs Andre Gomes banned for three games for stamp on Fulham forward Aleksandar Mitrovic

Everton's Andre Gomes banned for three games for stamp on Fulham forward Aleksandar Mitrovic

Everton’s Andre Gomes has been banned for three games after the forward was charged with violent conduct by the Football Association for his stamp on Fulham forward Aleksandar Mitrovic on Saturday.  The incident occurred in the final moments of the game at Craven Cottage, which Fulham won 2-0. Gomes made a late challenge and appeared to slam his studs into Mitrovic’s ankle while the forward was lying on the ground.  Referee Lee Probert did not see the challenge and Gomes faced no punishment at the time, but it was clearly caught on camera and was shown on the BBC’s Match of the Day programme later that evening.  In a statement, the FA said: “Everton’s André Gomes has been charged with violent conduct. This follows an incident in the 95th minute of the Premier League fixture against Fulham on Saturday [13/04/2019] that was not seen by the match officials but caught on video.  “The midfielder has until 18:00 on Tuesday [16/04/2019] to respond to the charge.”


theindependent--2019-10-11--Tommy Robinson could be banned from all football matches under police push

Tommy Robinson could be banned from all football matches in the UK, as well as all England matches at home and abroad.  Bedfordshire Police and the UK Football Policing Unit are working together in an attempt to have the far-right agitator barred from regulated football matches.  Officials are bidding to bar Robinson from “all regulated football matches, home and abroad”, according to The Daily Mirror.  A hearing on the matter will be held at Luton Magistrates Court on 18 October, a Bedfordshire Police spokesperson told The Independent.  “We have served papers ... regarding an application for a Football Banning Order,” the spokesperson added.  Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, was filmed last year as he punched an English football fan to the ground.  In a video circulated on social media, the far-right figure was seen lashing out at a man in an England shirt outside the Estadio D Afonso Henriques stadium in Guimaraes.  The incident occurred before England’s match with the Netherlands in Portugal.  Immediately before the attack, people can be heard shouting Robinson’s name and other inaudible words.  Bedfordshire Police and the UK Football Policing Unit previously applied to ban Robinson from matches in 2016.  The 36-year-old successfully challenged the attempt in court.  Robinson has an extensive criminal record, much of which relates to football violence.  He has previously been convicted of offences including using threatening and abusing behaviour during a fight between fans.  Robinson’s alias is itself taken from the member of a well-known football hooligan firm in his home town of Luton.


theindependent--2019-12-07--Ole Gunnar Solskjaer calls for alleged racist fan to be banned from football for life as Man City in

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer calls for alleged racist fan to be banned from football for life as Man City investigate

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has called for the supporter being investigated for allegedly racially abusing Manchester United players in the 2-1 derby victory at Manchester City to “never be let into a football ground again.”  Video footage during the second half of the encounter at the Etihad showed a male seemingly making monkey noises and gestures towards Fred and Jesse Lingard, who were readying to take a corner in front of the home fans.  The United manager watched the incident and spoke to the pair after the game to ascertain whether they had noticed the abuse, which City are investigating together with Greater Manchester Police.  "Fred and Jesse were taking a corner and I've seen the video and heard from the boys,” Solskjaer said.  “We keep talking about it every bloody week. But he's been caught on camera, he should - in my opinion - never be allowed into a football ground again. It’s unacceptable.  “I’m sure City and the authorities will deal with it. We keep talking about it every week and it won't stop unless it'll have consequences."  When quizzed over whether City should be punished with a partial stadium closure or similar, Solskjaer responded: "Why don't we educate him instead? It's not City's fault, it's his and he should be educated, that's my opinion anyway.  “It's nothing to do with Man City as a football club, no."  The issue, which transpired around the 68th minute of the match, was spotted due to objects being thrown at the United players by City fans.  Greater Manchester Police are working with the club to identify those culprits as well.  Kick It Out, English football’s equality and inclusion organisation, said it had been “inundated with reports of alleged racist abuse from a number of individuals. We will be contacting both clubs to offer our support and hope swift action is taken to identify the offenders.”


thesun--2019-01-10--Charlie Austin banned for two-matches for two-fingered gesture to Man City fans

CHARLIE AUSTIN has been banned for two-matches following his two-fingered gesture to Manchester City fans.  The [FA confirmed that the Southampton striker had been charged earlier this month](https://www.thesun.co.uk/sport/8109489/charlie-austin-fa-gesture-man- city/) for making an "obscene gesture" in the fixture on December 30.  ![ Charlie Austin has been given a two-match ban for this gesture against Manchester City]()  Sky Sports  Charlie Austin has been given a two-match ban for this gesture against Manchester City  It means boss Ralph Hasenhuttl will be without his key striker for the upcoming clashes against Leicester and their FA Cup third round replay against Derby.  The German gaffer is facing a mini selection crisis with Danny Ings out with a hamstring injury.  Rising star Michael Obafemi is also struggling with a hamstring complaint and Saturday's contest is likely to come too soon.  Shane Long is the club's only fit senior striker and could lead the line against the Foxes.  ![ Charlie Austin will miss the upcoming games against Leicester and Derby]()  Getty Images - Getty  Charlie Austin will miss the upcoming games against Leicester and Derby  Alvaro Morata has important goal controversially disallowed for Chelsea against Southampton  Austin appeared to show the gesture when he was being substituted in the 68th minute of the 3-1 defeat against the champions.  Shortly after the game, [the FA wrote to Austin asking for explanations](https://www.thesun.co.uk/sport/football/8090900/charlie-austin- fa-explain-two-fingered-gesture/) over the incident.  Jack Wilshere received the same punishment following a similar incident in 2013.  Southampton are locked in a relegation battle and sit two points adrift of safety.


thesun--2019-03-20--Sheff United Womens star Sophie Jones sacked and banned for racially abusing Tottenham player

Sheff United Women’s star Sophie Jones sacked and banned for racially abusing Tottenham player

SHEFFIELD UNITED women's star Sophie Jones has been sacked and banned for racially abusing an opponent.  The Blades forward has been found guilty by a Football Association disciplinary hearing into [claims she taunted Tottenham's Renee Hector](https://www.thesun.co.uk/sport/football/8136658/tottenham-ladies- renee-hector-racially-abused-her/) with monkey noises.  ![ Sheffield United striker Sophie Jones, left, has been sacked and banned for racially abusing Tottenham's Renee Hector]()  Getty Images - Getty  Sheffield United striker Sophie Jones, left, has been sacked and banned for racially abusing Tottenham's Renee Hector  The 27-year-old from Liverpool was charged by the FA following a four week investigation into the allegations made after the Women's Championship match in January.  Jones denied the charge, but the panel were convinced there was enough evidence to uphold the complaint.  Sheffield United Women have since terminated her contract after she was suspended for five games.  She was also fined £200 and ordered to attend an FA education course.  A Sheffield United statement said: "The club works closely with the EFL, the FA and Kick it Out and would like to reiterate that it does not condone racism or any form of discrimination.  "Following dialogue between the club and Jones, and taking into account the length of the suspension, it has been decided that her contract, which was due for review in the summer, will be terminated by mutual agreement."  Defender Hector released a statement after the outcome was revealed and said: "There is no place for racism in our game. A zero tolerance policy is imperative in stamping this out from football therefore I welcome this verdict.  "No should be subjected to racist abuse on or off the pitch and I felt a responsibility to call it out for what it was.  "I want to now concentrate on the last five games of the FAWC and trying to secure promotion with Spurs.  "Thank you to everyone who has supported me throughout this process."


thesun--2019-04-23--Spanish ref Javier Alberola banned for two games after clipping Alvaro Morata on the back of the hea

Spanish ref Javier Alberola banned for two games after clipping Alvaro Morata on the back of the head

THE referee who appeared to clip Alvaro Morata on the back of the head has been banned for two matches.  Javier Alberola was involved in a controversial clash with the striker during last week's La Liga match between [Atletico Madrid](https://www.thesun.co.uk/sport/football/team/1362333/atletico-madrid/) and Eibar.  ![ Alvaro Morata has to be restrained from confronting referee Javier Alberola]()  Getty Images - Getty  Alvaro Morata has to be restrained from confronting referee Javier Alberola  On-loan [Chelsea](https://www.thesun.co.uk/sport/football/team/1196660/chelsea/) star Morata was left fuming when the official seemed to clip him on the neck in the closing stages of the match.  The forward had still not calmed down by full-time of Atleti's 1-0 victory and attempted to confront the 27-year-old official.  [Morata](https://www.thesun.co.uk/who/alvaro-morata/) had to be pulled back by his team-mates as he attempted to have it out with the referee in extraordinary scenes.  Alberola insisted the contact made was nothing more than a friendly pat, but it appears his bosses have not been so supportive of his stance.  ## ANNOYED  The Spanish FA's refereeing committee have decided to axe him from selection for the next two rounds of matches in the top flight.  After the match on Sunday, Morata was defended by Atletico manager Diego Simeone.  He said: "Morata was not happy. In fact, he was annoyed.  "That action reminded me when I was banned for four games when I did something similar to the fourth official."  Atleti team-mate Koke Resurreccion added: "I had never seen a referee do something like that.  "He (Morata) felt a clip around the back of the neck and got annoyed at the referee. He is only human.  "If the referee made a mistake it will have to be looked upon. I do not know if the should be sanctioned; that is for others to decide.  "But one thing certain is that the incident has to be looked at."  Watch all the weekend Premier League highlights from Saturday, Sunday and Monday


thesun--2019-10-18--More than 2,000 Ajax fans banned from watching Chelsea clash are set to go to Leyton Orient instead

MORE than 2,000 Ajax fans are set to descend on Leyton Orient after being banned from watching their Champions League clash against Chelsea.  The Dutch giants travel to London on November 5 for their Group H showdown - but will do so without their fans.  Ajax were slapped with the ban after their raucous supporters got into trouble against Benfica last season.  After initially being handed a suspended sentence, Dutch fans re-offended against Valencia earlier this month.  They have been hit with the ban and fined £43,000 by Uefa, who have also given a “conditional penalty of one year for selling tickets at an away match”.  But over 2,000 Ajax fans have already arranged flights and accommodation to stay in London on November 5.  Now they have begged Leyton Orient to let them attend their game against Brighton Under-21s in the Football League trophy.  But they warned the League Two side they "risk a great atmosphere and memories forever".  One huge Ajax fan took to Twitter, pleading: "Dear @leytonorientfc. Are you willing to host 2,000 Ajax fans?  Pick up a whole load of acca features to help you land the big one  "We are systematically and unlawfully screwed by @UEFA and @metpoliceuk.  "Lots of us booked transport and hotels already and will travel.  "You might risk a great atmosphere and memories forever. Kind regards."


activistpost--2019-02-18--EU Proposal Pushes Tech Companies to Tackle Terrorist Content with AI Despite Implications for Wa

EU Proposal Pushes Tech Companies to Tackle “Terrorist Content” with AI, Despite Implications for War Crimes Evidence

A new video on Orient News’ YouTube channel shows a scene that is all too familiar to its regular viewers.  Staff at a surgical hospital in Syria’s Idlib province rush to operate on a man who has just been injured in an explosion. The camera pans downward and shows three bodies on the floor. One lies motionless. The other two are covered with blankets. A man bends over and peers under the blanket, perhaps to see if he knows the victim.  Syrian media outlet Orient News is one of several smaller media outlets that has played a critical role in documenting Syria’s civil war and putting video evidence of violence against civilians into the public eye. Active since 2008, the group is owned and operated by a vocal critic of the Assad regime.  Alongside their own distribution channels, YouTube has been an instrumental vehicle for bringing videos like this one to a wider audience. Or at least it was, until August 2017 when, without warning, Orient News’ YouTube channel was suspended.  After some inquiry by the group, alongside other small media outlets including Bellingcat, Middle East Eye and the Syrian Archive — all of whom also saw some of their videos disappear — it came to light that YouTube had taken down hundreds of videos that appeared to include “extremist” content.  But these groups were puzzled. They had been posting their videos, which typically include captions and contextual details, for years. Why were they suddenly seen as unsafe for YouTube’s massive user base?  Because there was a new kind of authority calling the shots.  Just before the mysterious removals, YouTube announced its deployment of artificial intelligence technology to identify and censor “graphic or extremist content,” in order to crack down on ISIS and similar groups that have used social media (including YouTube, Twitter and the now defunct Google Plus) to post gruesome footage of executions and to recruit fighters.  Thousands of videos documenting war crimes and human rights violations were swept up and censored in this AI-powered purge. After the groups questioned YouTube about the move, the company admitted that it made the “wrong call’’ on several videos, which were reinstated thereafter. Others remained under a ban, due to “violent and graphic content.”  Companies like Google (parent of YouTube), Facebook and Twitter have legitimate reasons to take special measures when it comes to graphic violence and content associated with violent extremist groups — it can lead to situations of real-life harm and can be bad for business too. But the question of how they should identify and remove these kinds of content — while preserving essential evidence of war crimes and violence — is far from answered.  The companies have developed their policies over the years to acknowledge that not all violent content is intended to promote or incite violence. While YouTube, like other platforms, does not allow most extremist or violent content, it does allow users to publish such content in “a news, documentary, scientific, or artistic context,” encouraging them to provide contextual information about the video.  But, the policy cautions: “In some cases, content may be so violent or shocking that no amount of context will allow that content to remain on our platforms.” YouTube offers no public information describing how internal mechanisms determine which videos are “so violent or shocking.”  This approach puts the company into a precarious position. It is assessing content intended for public consumption, yet it has no mechanisms for ensuring public transparency or accountability about those assessments. The company is making its own rules and changing them at will, to serve its own best interests.  A committee in the European Commission is threatening to intervene in this scenario, with a draft regulation that would force companies to step up their removal of “terrorist content” or face steep fines. While the proposed regulation would break the cycle of companies attempting and often failing to “self-regulate,” it could make things even worse for groups like Orient News.  What does the Commission proposal say? Under the proposal, aimed at “preventing the dissemination of terrorist content online,” service providers are required to “take proactive measures to protect their services against the dissemination of terrorist content.” These include the use of automated tools to: “(a) effectively address the re-appearance of content which has previously been removed or to which access has been disabled because it is considered to be terrorist content; (b) detect, identify and expeditiously remove or disable access to terrorist content,” article 6(2) stipulates. If adopted the proposal would also require “hosting service providers [to] remove terrorist content or disable access to it within one hour from receipt of the removal order.” It further grants law enforcement or Europal the power to “send a referral” to hosting service providers for their “voluntary consideration.” The service provider will assess the referred content “against its own terms and conditions and decide whether to remove that content or to disable access to it.”  The draft regulation demands more aggressive deletion of this type of content, and quick turnaround times on its removal. But it does not establish a special court or other judicial mechanism that can offer guidance to companies struggling to assess complex online content.  Instead, it would force hosting service providers to use automated tools to prevent the dissemination of “terrorist content” online. This would require companies to use the kind of system that YouTube has already put into place voluntarily.  The EU proposal puts a lot of faith in these tools, ignoring the fact that users, technical experts, and even legislators themselves remain largely in the dark about how these technologies work.  Automated tools may be trained to assess whether a video is violent or graphic. But how do they determine the video’s intended purpose? How do they know if the person who posted the video was trying to document the human cost of conflict? Can these technologies really understand the context in which these incidents take place? And to what extent do human moderators play a role in these decisions?  We have almost no answers to these questions.  “We don’t have the most basic assurances of algorithmic accountability or transparency, such as accuracy, explainability, fairness, and auditability. Platforms use machine-learning algorithms that are proprietary and shielded from any review,” wrote WITNESS’ Dia Kayyali in a December 2018 blogpost.  The proposal’s critics argue that forcing all service providers to rely on automated tools in their efforts to crack down on terrorist and extremist content, without transparency and proper oversight, is a threat to freedom of expression and the open Web.  The UN special rapporteurs on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression; the right to privacy; and the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms while countering terrorism have also expressed their concerns to the Commission. In a December 2018 memo, they wrote:  In recital 18, the proposal outlines measures that hosting service providers can take to prevent the dissemination of terror-related content, including the use of tools that would “prevent the re-upload of terrorist content.” Commonly known as upload filters, such tools have been a particular concern for European digital rights groups. The issue first arose during the EU’s push for a Copyright Directive, that would have required platforms to verify the ownership of a piece of content when it is uploaded by a user.  “We’re fearful of function creep,’’ Evelyn Austin from the Netherlands-based digital rights organization Bits of Freedom said at a public conference.  Austin pointed out that these mechanisms undercut previous strategies that relied more heavily on the use of due process. Upload filtering….will replace notice-and-action mechanisms, which are bound by the rule of law, by a process in which content is taken down based on a company’s terms of service. This will strip users of their rights to freedom of expression and redress… The draft EU proposal also applies stiff financial penalties to companies that fail to comply. For a single company, this can amount to up to 4% of its global turnover from the previous business year. French digital rights group La Quadrature du Net offered a firm critique of the proposal, and noted the limitations it would set for smaller websites and services: From a technical, economical and human perspective, only a handful of providers will be able to comply with these rigorous obligations – mostly the Web giants. To escape heavy sanctions, the other actors (economic or not) will have no other choice but to close down their hosting services… “Through these tools,” they warned, “these monopolistic companies will be in charge of judging what can be said on the Internet, on almost any service.” Indeed, worse than encouraging “self-regulation”, the EU proposal will take us further away from a world in which due process or other publicly-bound mechanisms are used to decide what we say and see online, and push us closer to relying entirely on proprietary technologies to decide what kinds of content is appropriate for public consumption — with no mechanism for public oversight. Top image caption and credit: Yarmouk, Syria. The area had been damaged by airstrikes and fighting between the regime and rebels. Photo by Ahmad Shihabi, used with permission. Afef Abrougui is Advox Editor for the Middle East and North Africa This article was sourced from GlobalVoices.org