Rangers have been ordered by UEFA to close a section of their Ibrox Stadium for Thursday’s Europa League meeting with Legia Warsaw due to racist behaviour which includes “sectarian singing” by their supporters.
The ban was placed after the European soccer’s governing body opened disciplinary proceedings against the Scottish club.
Investigation was instituted after incidents involving their fans during the second leg of their Europa League qualifier against St Joseph’s on July 18.
The UEFA Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body ruled on Friday that Rangers must close a section of the stadium containing no fewer than 3,000 seats.
“Our supporters have been asked repeatedly by the club to refrain from indulging in this and other forms of unacceptable behaviour.
“Sadly the warnings have fallen on deaf ears and the actions of this minority will cause the club and the majority of good and decent Rangers supporters to pay a heavy penalty.
“This is deeply regrettable to all at the club and we hope that the guilty parties who attracted the attention of UEFA might reflect on the damage their unacceptable behaviour is causing Rangers and their fellow supporters,’’ the club’s statement said.
Sanctions for Thursday’s tie, which stands at 0-0 after this week’s playoff round first leg, also include a banner with “#EqualGame” to be placed across the empty section of seats.
Rangers Chairman Dave King said: “Rangers has players and supporters from many religions, cultures and backgrounds, but we are one and the same when we gather to support our club.
“If any supporter cannot accept that then Rangers is not the club for them.”
Reuters/NAN
