• Europa League

UEFA investigates Lazio chants

ESPN staff
September 21, 2012

UEFA has opened disciplinary proceedings against Lazio after the Italian club's supporters were accused of making racist chants at Tottenham players during their Europa League tie.

Unsavoury chanting from away supporters was allegedly heard during Thursday's 0-0 draw at White Hart Lane, with Spurs boss Andre Villas-Boas subsequently calling for action to be taken by the competition's governing body.

Reports were received by UEFA from referee Ovidiu Alin Hategan and match delegate Adonis Procopiou, and the governing body has now responded, confirming it will open a full investigation into the incident. The case will be heard on October 18.

A statement read: "UEFA has opened disciplinary proceedings against SS Lazio for the improper conduct of the club's supporters (racist behaviour) during the UEFA Europa League group stage match on Thursday September 20 between Tottenham Hotspur FC and the Italian side."

If found guilty, Lazio could face a club fine of around £16,000, although UEFA does reserve the right to order games to be played behind closed doors. The option for points deductions or even disqualification does exist, although such instances are rare.

"UEFA is very active on this kind of situation and our overall objective is to kick racism out of football," Villas-Boas said on Thursday. "I can't point the finger at anyone in any way shape or form because I didn't hear anything.

"It's for the authorities to follow up in any kind of investigation."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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