Top Romanian clubs punished over racist behaviour

BUCHAREST, May 26: Leading Romanian clubs Steaua and Dinamo Bucharest have been fined and their stadiums banned over racist behaviour from players and fans last weekend, the Romanian Football Federation (FRF) said today.

Steaua players joined their fans after a 2-1 away win over Sportul Studentesc last Sunday and shouted racist slogans against bitter rivals Rapid Bucharest.

Dinamo supporters insulted a coloured Arges Pitesti player throughout their 1-0 away victory on Saturday.

''Both Steaua and Dinamo will play their next match at home behind closed doors,'' FRF disciplinary commission head Doru Viorel Ursu told reporters.

''And both teams were fined 24,630 dollars each.'' Steaua, top of the first division with 58 points, and Rapid, two points behind with two matches remaining, are the main contenders for the Romanian league title.

Dinamo, who have changed coach several times this season, are fourth with 52 points and struggling to qualify for the UEFA Cup.

Sportul Studentesc are third on 53.

Last year, UEFA banned Steaua's stadium for two matches and fined the club after fans' racist behaviour against Irish side Shelbourne's two coloured players during the home leg of their Champions League preliminary round tie.

REUTERS