UEFA Fines Serbia for Fan Misconduct During Nations League Match Against Switzerland

The Serbian football federation has been fined €52,000 ($56,500) by UEFA due to incidents involving fans during the Nations League match against Switzerland. The game, which took place on October 12, was marked by fans jeering the Swiss national anthem and displaying an anti-Kosovo banner, actions that have drawn UEFA's scrutiny.

This match was attended by Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic and highlighted the politically charged atmosphere surrounding encounters between Serbia and Switzerland, a tension that has been evident in recent international tournaments, including the past two World Cups. Granit Xhaka, the captain of Switzerland, has personal ties to Kosovo through his ethnic Albanian family, adding another layer of complexity to these encounters. Serbia has not recognized Kosovo's independence, declared in 2008, which has historically fueled disputes during football matches.

In addition to the fine, UEFA's disciplinary panel has placed Serbia on a two-year probationary period. Should further misconduct occur, UEFA has warned that a section of the stadium will be closed for one match as a penalty. UEFA enforces strict rules against political statements in stadiums, which include charges against Serbia for "transmitting a message that is not fit for a sports event."

The organization also took action against Hungary for discriminatory chants from fans, banning ticket sales for a Nations League match against the Netherlands. Additionally, both Hungary and Bosnia-Herzegovina faced charges for "racist or discriminatory behavior" during their recent Nations League encounter in Zenica.

These developments emphasize UEFA's commitment to maintaining sportsmanship and decorum in international football, particularly amid the politically sensitive issues surrounding the Balkan region.