Oct 4, 2024 –UEFA has fined Kosovo €61,000 following disruptions during their Nations League match against Romania, where Kosovo fans booed Romania’s national anthem and displayed politically charged banners. The incident took place during the September fixture in Bucharest and sparked tensions due to Romania’s refusal to recognize Kosovo’s independence.
The atmosphere in the stadium became heated when fans jeered the Romanian anthem, a gesture that reflects ongoing political strains between the two countries. In addition to the anthem disruption, banners referencing Kosovo’s political status were raised by some Kosovo supporters, further intensifying the situation.
UEFA’s fine covers these incidents and other crowd disturbances that violated the organization’s disciplinary guidelines, which aim to keep political messages and actions out of sports events.
The governing body has long enforced strict policies against unsportsmanlike conduct from fans, including disrespect towards national symbols. UEFA’s disciplinary panel emphasized that such actions undermine the neutral spirit of competition.
Kosovo declared independence from Serbia in 2008, but Romania is among the EU member states that have not officially recognized it. The political tensions have, at times, spilled over into sporting events, making this particular Nations League match more than just a contest on the pitch.
Kosovo’s Football Federation has yet to issue a statement on the fine, but the event has prompted calls for better control over fans’ behavior at international matches.
