The Albanian Football Federation (FSHF) has been officially sanctioned by FIFA following the controversial World Cup qualifier match against Serbia. According to an official FIFA statement released on Wednesday, the FSHF has been fined 161,500 Swiss francs and ordered to play its next home game against Latvia with only 20% stadium capacity allowed for spectators.
Reasons Behind FIFA’s Strict Disciplinary Action
The disciplinary decision comes as a result of repeated misconduct by a segment of Albanian fans during the Serbia match. FIFA highlighted several serious violations of international sports ethics, including:
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Singing discriminatory and provocative chants
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Throwing objects onto the field
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Lighting fireworks and flares inside the stadium
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Making inappropriate gestures and displaying offensive messages
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Interruptions during the playing of national anthems
These actions violated FIFA’s strict regulations on fan behavior and stadium safety, prompting the harsh penalties.
Impact of the Sanction on Albanian Football
This fine and partial stadium closure represent a significant setback for FSHF both financially and organizationally. More importantly, it threatens to reduce fan support for the national team during critical upcoming qualifiers. Playing in a stadium largely empty of home supporters could negatively affect the team’s morale and performance.
FSHF’s Response: A Call for Responsibility and Unity
In its official response, the Albanian Football Federation called the FIFA decision a serious punishment that impacts the entire football community in Albania. The FSHF appealed to all Albanian fans to refrain from behavior that could harm the team and to respect international rules by creating a respectful and supportive atmosphere at future matches.
“We urge all supporters of the national team to avoid any conduct that could damage our squad. Respect for international regulations and a dignified atmosphere is essential to back Albania’s football,” said the FSHF.
The Federation also stressed that only through unity and responsible support can the fans truly help the national team reach its potential without risking further sanctions.
Next Steps: Match Against Latvia Under Restrictions
The next home match, scheduled against Latvia, will take place with the stadium operating at no more than 20% of its seating capacity, significantly limiting the number of fans allowed inside. The FSHF hopes that this penalty will serve as a wake-up call to foster better fan behavior moving forward.