FIFA urged by monitoring group to act on 3 European teams over fan behaviour at World Cup

RIO DE JANEIRO – A monitoring group is urging FIFA to investigate instances of alleged discrimination by supporters of three European countries at World Cup matches.

Fare executive director Piara Powar says its report to FIFA identifies Germany, France and Belgium fans who have worn black face make-up during matches.

Images of at least two Germany fans appeared on social media with blackened faces at the team’s match against Ghana.

Fare says in a message posted on its Twitter account that it also advised FIFA about a pitch invader in that match “with neo-Nazi references painted on his body.”

In a separate incident involving a Colombia fan, Fare reports “a man wearing a clerical costume daubed with swastikas.”

FIFA can open disciplinary cases against national federations, which are responsible for fan behaviour inside stadiums.

News from © The Associated Press, . All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Join the Conversation!

Want to share your thoughts, add context, or connect with others in your community?

The Associated Press

The Associated Press is an independent global news organization dedicated to factual reporting. Founded in 1846, AP today remains the most trusted source of fast, accurate, unbiased news in all formats and the essential provider of the technology and services vital to the news business. More than half the world’s population sees AP journalism every day.