Hungary sanctioned over racist abuse of England players
By Tom Gott
The Hungarian FA have been hit with spectator bans and a fine relating to their supporters' racist abuse of England players during the two sides' World Cup qualifier earlier this month.
England romped to a 4-0 win on the night but the occasion was marred by racist abuse from a section of the Hungarian fans, who directed most of their vulgarity towards goalscorer Raheem Sterling and also targeted young Jude Bellingham.
Cups and other projectiles were also thrown on to the pitch, from which Declan Rice and Jack Grealish offered up iconic photos of them drinking in the face of all the abuse.
FIFA quickly opened an investigation into the incident and the governing body have since confirmed on their official website that Hungary have been found guilty of racially abusing the England players during the game.
The Hungarian FA have been hit with a fine worth just under £160,000 as well as two-game stadium ban for supporters in FIFA competitions, the last of which is suspended for two years.
"FIFA’s position remains firm and resolute in rejecting any form of racism and violence as well as any other form of discrimination or abuse," a statement read. "FIFA takes a clear zero tolerance stance against such abhorrent behaviour in football."
It means Hungary will be without fans for their meeting with Albania on 9 October but, barring any further fan unrest, supporters will be able to return to see their country face San Marino in November.
In between those games is another meeting with England, which will take place at Wembley Stadium on 12 October. The Three Lions sit top of their World Cup qualifying group and are still yet to taste defeat, having won five and drawn one of their first six games.