OFFICIAL: FIFA imposes heavy penalty on European national team football association

FIFA has decided to fine the Israel Football Association (IFA) 150,000 Swiss francs (approximately $190,700) for "multiple violations" related to anti-discrimination regulations.

According to Al Jazeera, based on a report released by FIFA's Disciplinary Committee on Thursday, the IFA was found to have "failed to take sufficiently strong action" against Beitar Jerusalem club, where there exists a "long-standing and clearly documented" pattern of racist behavior.

The case originated in October 2024, when the Palestinian Football Association filed a complaint with FIFA, accusing the IFA of discriminatory conduct. Subsequently, FIFA conducted an investigation.

Although the Palestinian side requested a heavier penalty, including the possibility of suspending the IFA, FIFA did not apply this measure. However, the world football governing body concluded that the IFA had not fully complied with its obligations under FIFA regulations, and also pointed out numerous incidents related to racism in Israeli football.

The Disciplinary Committee particularly emphasized that the disciplinary measures imposed on Beitar Jerusalem club were "deficient and insufficiently deterrent" against discriminatory acts. The report stated that fans of this club frequently engage in racist behavior, including using slogans such as "forever pure" and repeatedly chanting offensive words targeting Arab players. These behaviors are not isolated but systemic, negatively affecting the image of football.

In addition to the financial penalty, FIFA also issued a warning to the IFA and required this organization to display banners with the message "Football Unites the World – No to Discrimination" during its next three home matches in FIFA competitions.

Furthermore, the IFA must allocate one-third of the fine amount to implement an action plan aimed at combating discrimination and preventing similar incidents from recurring in the future.

In another development, following a separate investigation, FIFA also announced that no action will be taken against Israeli clubs accused of having headquarters in settlements in the West Bank but still participating in domestic competitions.