Lazio to play in empty stadium

Lazio to play in empty stadium

Published Feb. 27, 2013 12:00 a.m. ET

UEFA has ordered Lazio to play its next two home matches in European competition in an empty stadium as punishment for a fourth offense of racist behavior by its fans this season.

Lazio's Olympic Stadium will first be closed to supporters when the Rome club hosts Stuttgart in a Europa League last-16, second-leg match on March 14.

UEFA did not specify the offensive behavior, which was widely reported to have been fans making fascist-style salutes.

Lazio was also fined €40,000 ($52,000). Its UEFA fines now total €220,000 ($294,000) this season.

ADVERTISEMENT

Lazio's latest sanction followed incidents during a 2-0 victory against Borussia Moenchengladbach last Thursday.

UEFA previously found Lazio fans guilty after home and away matches against Tottenham, and away to Maribor.

share