Lazio punished for fans' racist behaviour

UEFA has taken action against Lazio after its fans were found to have engaged in racist chanting against Rennes earlier this month.

Lazio's Stadio Olimpico

Lazio has been ordered to play one UEFA competition home match in a partially closed stadium following the racist behaviour of its fans against Rennes in the Europa League.

The supporters were alleged to have engaged in racist chanting at Stadio Olimpico, as Lazio came from behind to win 2-1 on October 3.

UEFA's Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body has since found it guilty and ordered the partial closure of its stadium – specifically sections 46, 47, 48 and 49 – and the displaying of an 'Equal Game banner' for its next Europa League match.

Lazio must also pay a €20,000 fine and has been handed a suspended one-match UEFA stadium ban, which will only come into effect if it is found in breach again over the next year.

The Serie A was seemingly made aware of the sanctions a day earlier on Tuesday, acknowledging it was to be imposed because of "the hateful racist acts performed by a few".

Lazio also confirmed it plans to prosecute those responsible, continuing a "zero tolerance" policy against racism.