Partial stadium closure for Olympiacos and Zenit

UEFA's Control and Disciplinary Body (CDB) has made the following decisions regarding recent cases from UEFA Champions League matches:

Olympiacos FC v RSC Anderlecht, UEFA Champions League Group C, 10 December 2013

Olympiacos have been sanctioned for the racist conduct of supporters (Article 14 of UEFA Disciplinary Regulations), insufficient organisation (Article 33 (4) of UEFA Safety and Security Regulations), the setting-off of fireworks (Article 16 DR) and the use of a laser (Article 16 DR). There will be a partial closure of the Greek club's stadium – the lower tier of the north stand – for their next UEFA competition home match. They have also been fined €30,000.

FK Austria Wien v FC Zenit, UEFA Champions League Group G, 11 December 2013

Zenit have been penalised for the racist behaviour of fans – namely the displaying of a banner (Article 14 DR) – the setting-off and throwing of fireworks (Article 16 (2) DR) and crowd disturbances (Article 16 DR).

There will be a partial closure of the Russian team's stadium – specifically the area housing the club's ultras – for their next UEFA competition home game. Zenit have also been fined €40,000.

Both clubs may lodge an appeal against the respective decisions within three days of receipt of the written verdict.

The fight against racism is a high priority for UEFA. The European governing body has a zero-tolerance policy towards racism and discrimination on the pitch and in the stands. All forms of racist behaviour are considered serious offences against the disciplinary regulations and are punished with the most severe sanctions. Following the entry into force of the new disciplinary regulations on 1 June, the fight against racist conduct has been stepped up a level – resulting in more severe punishments to deter such behaviour.