Russian football begins preparations for 2018 World Cup
Russian football authorities are looking to follow the example of English football by cracking down on hooliganism as they begin to make preparations for the 2018 World Cup.
The authorities have targeted instances of extremism, including the use of firecrackers, obscene language and banners depicting racist messages, as one of its top priorities.
With supporters in Moscow and St. Petersburg being identified as the main perpetrators, all clubs have been told to take steps in disciplining their fans or face the possibility of being deducted up to six points.
The move comes after former FIFA PR chief Keith Cooper highlighted England as the model of best practice when it comes to curbing racism.
Much work has been done by the English football authorities to ensure that racist behaviour and football-related violence is monitored and punished. When isolated incidents do occur, offenders are put on a supporters’ log, barring them from attending games both domestically and overseas.
Any player caught up in a race-related incident may be banned, with the offender’s club receiving a large fine and being forced to play their next three home games in an empty stadium.
For more information on plans ahead of World Cups 2014 and 2018, please visit www.fifa.com
From The Voice of Russia