Romania to play 1 qualifier in empty stadium for fan racism

Romania to play 1 qualifier in empty stadium for fan racism

Published Sep. 17, 2015 11:10 a.m. ET

BUCHAREST, Romania (AP) Romania has been punished for racist and violent behavior by fans with an order to play its final European Championship qualifying home match in an empty stadium.

The Romanian football federation says UEFA on Thursday also imposed fines totaling 110,000 euros ($125,000).

The incidents happened during Romania's 0-0 draws at neighboring Hungary and at home to Greece this month.

The Romanian federation says fans clashed with rival supporters in Budapest, did not respect the Hungarian anthem and showed an offensive banner.

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The federation says the stadium sanction was imposed for racist behavior at the National Arena in Bucharest against Greece.

Romania next hosts Finland on Oct. 8.

Romania is set to play at Euro 2016 in France, holding the second automatic qualifying place in Group F with two matches left.

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