Croatian Football Federation Faces Disciplinary Over Swastika Symbol
Uefa has confirmed disciplinary proceedings have been opened against the Croatia Football Federation (HNS) after an apparent swastika was spotted on the pitch during their Euro 2016 qualifier with Italy.
Friday’s game in Split was overshadowed when, during the first half, it became apparent a swastika could be seen in Croatia’s half.
The swastika is a symbol (pictured above) that generally takes the form of an equilateral cross, with its four legs bent at 90 degrees. It is considered to be a sacred and auspicious symbol in Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism.
Attempts from stadium staff to remove the symbol at half-time proved unsuccessful and the HNS duly apologised, while lamenting “obvious sabotage and a criminal act”.
European football’s governing body has now initiated an investigation – charging the HNS with a breach of article 14 of their regulations, relating to racist behaviour.
The match in Split, which finished 1-1, was played behind closed doors after Uefa found Croatian fans guilty of racist chanting during a qualifier against Norway in March.
