Bulgaria have been ordered to play their next competitive home game behind closed doors with a further match suspended for two years following the racist behaviour of their fans during the Euro 2020 qualifier against England on October 14.
A section of supporters at the match in Sofia’s Levski Stadium directed racial abuse at England’s black players, while some were also seen making Nazi salutes.
The Bulgarian Football Union was also fined 75,000 euros (£64,641) for “the racist behaviour of its supporters and the throwing of objects”.
Anti-racism campaign group Kick It Out said UEFA’s regulations on racism needed to be “overhauled” and said European football’s governing body had “missed an opportunity” to send the right message.
“We are disheartened, but not surprised, to learn of UEFA’s response to the racist abuse directed at England players,” the statement read.
“In our view, they have missed an opportunity to send an uncompromising message on racism and discrimination.
“The current sanctions, however ‘tough’ UEFA think they may be, are clearly not working and leave victims with little faith in their ability to prevent abusive behaviour.
“We feel UEFA’s entire disciplinary process in response to racial discrimination should be overhauled, and urge them to explain the decision-making process behind their sanctions for incidents of
discrimination.”
