FIFA Sanctions Follow Crowd Violence During England Match at Wembley

FIFA has prohibited Hungary supporters from attending their team’s upcoming World Cup qualifier against Poland on Sunday, 15 November. This decision follows violent incidents during Hungary’s match against England at Wembley on 12 October, which ended in a 1-1 draw.

The unrest reportedly began after allegations of racial abuse directed at a steward, according to Britain’s Metropolitan Police. FIFA cited “lighting of fireworks, improper conduct by spectators, and lack of order in the stadium” as reasons for the ban. Additionally, the Hungarian Football Federation has been fined 75,000 Swiss Francs (approximately £60,288).

This is not the first instance of sanctions against Hungary during the qualifiers. In September, FIFA ordered Hungary to play two matches behind closed doors after incidents of racism targeting England players during their game in Budapest.

Currently, Hungary sits fourth in Group I with 11 points from eight matches, trailing leaders England by nine points and second-placed Poland by six. With their hopes of advancing dwindling, the ban on fans adds further challenges for the team as they prepare for their critical clash in Warsaw.