FIFA charge Russia over fan racism during France friendly
Disciplinary proceedings have been opened against the Russian Football Union following racist chants during the friendly with France.
FIFA have charged the Russian Football Union with fan racism following incidents during the national team's friendly with France in March.
French duo Paul Pogba and Ousmane Dembele were among those said to be targeted by monkey noises during the game against the World Cup hosts in St Petersburg.
After collecting evidence, including from the FARE [Football Against Racism in Europe] observer who was present at the ground, FIFA have confirmed they have begun disciplinary proceedings.
"We can confirm that disciplinary proceedings have been opened against the Russian Football Union for this incident. We have no further comment at this stage," a FIFA spokesperson said.
Paris Saint-Germain forward Kylian Mbappe scored twice, while Manchester United midfielder Pogba also found the net with a long-range free-kick, as France won 3-1.
UEFA opened disciplinary proceedings against Zenit - whose Krestovsky Stadium hosted the international fixture - in March after racist chants were allegedly heard during a Europa League last-16 tie against RB Leipzig.
The venue will stage a World Cup semi-final on July 10, as well as group matches including Russia v Egypt, Brazil v Costa Rica and Nigeria v Argentina.
Get FourFourTwo Newsletter
The best features, fun and footballing quizzes, straight to your inbox every week.
‘Maybe I’ll be signed by Wrexham, who knows? English football would suit me – if an offer came, I wouldn’t think twice, I’d go immediately’ Euro 2024 cult hero reveals his UK dream
‘Managing Leeds? It was an option that appeared, but it wasn’t the right timing. I decided it wasn’t a good idea to leave the club I was at mid-season’: Premier League boss admits to turning down opportunity to replace Jesse Marsch in 2023