Scottish FA face FIFA investigation for Croatia fans setting off flares

[ian1964 10,372]

The Scottish Football Association could face punishment from FIFA for the behaviour of Croatian fans during a World Cup qualifier earlier this month.

 

The world football governing body have opened disciplinary proceedings against both associations for their failure to prevent travelling supporters from letting off flares and smoke bombs during the 1-0 win for Gordon Strachan's side.

 

Although Scotland fans were not involved in the incidents, FIFA rules stipulate that the home association hosting a fixture is responsible for any instances of "improper conduct" within its stadium.

 

The Scottish FA could be hit with a fine for the incident, with the Croatian federation also under investigation.

 

A spokesman for the governing body told STV: "We can confirm that disciplinary proceedings have been opened against the Scottish Football Association and the Croatian Football Federation for incidents that were reported during the preliminary competition match of the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil between Scotland and Croatia on 15 October 2013.

 

"As the proceedings are on-going, please understand that we cannot comment further."

 

FIFA's disciplinary code states that "the home association or home club is liable for improper conduct among spectators, regardless of the question of culpable conduct or culpable oversight, and, depending on the situation, may be fined. Further sanctions may be imposed in the case of serious disturbances.

 

"Improper conduct includes violence towards persons or objects, letting off incendiary devices, throwing missiles, displaying insulting or political slogans in any form, uttering insulting words or sounds, or invading the pitch."

 

The English FA are similarly subject to investigation by FIFA after Polish fans let off flares at Wembley earlier this month.

 

http://sport.stv.tv/football/international/245873-scottish-fa-face-fifa-sanctions-for-croatia-fans-setting-off-flares/

[Guest Night Owl]

And of course the Green smog that lights up every game played by those in the East is nothing but a figment of my imagination.