The Federal Prosecutor and the head of the Belgian football's top division – Pro League – have publicly condemned the neo-Nazi salutes made by a section of Club Brugge’s fans during a Sunday evening match against Standard de Liège.
In a statement posted on its website, the League reasserted its zero-tolerance stance on racism in football, branding it as "simply idiotic and punishable."
The comments come after a group of Club Brugge supporters made a neo-Nazi salute in response to an anti-racism initiative by the home side on Sunday night. The League stated that these kinds of actions confirm the pressing need for such campaigns.
Lorin Parys, CEO of the Pro League, expressed his severe disappointment at the supporters' behaviour, stating unequivocally: "Anyone found behaving in such a manner is no longer welcome. This applies not only to our football but also to our stands."
Standard's supporters with an antifascist banner before the match with Club Brugge, Sunday 4 August 2024 in Liege. Credit: Tom Goyvaerts
The Pro League also conveyed the possibility of severe consequences for both supporters and the club. For supporters, this could extend to a ban from the stadium for as long as a decade. Alongside this, the Royal Belgian Football Association’s disciplinary bodies could impose a fine on the club, or potentially enforce closure of part or all of its stands.
Finally, the Pro League reaffirmed its dedication to the ‘Come Together’ plan, collaborating with clubs and the Royal Belgian Football Association. This saw 75 training sessions being held at clubs last season, constant sensitivity activities, and ongoing cooperation with the prosecutor’s office.
Federal Prosecutor plans to take action
Federal Prosecutor Ebe Verhaegen also plans to present a disciplinary summons, known as a federal action, to the National Chamber in the fight against discrimination and racism, he told Belga News Agency on Monday.
"Such actions are absolutely unacceptable," said Verhaegen. "This needs to be made clear." The court intends to address all parties involved, both Standard and Club Brugge, before establishing a federal action. Club Brugge, like others facing supporter problems, will be held accountable for its fans' actions.
The fans giving the salute (left); 300 youth players wearing white and red masks in a silent statement against racism before the game. Credit: Screenshot/Standard Liège
In such incidents, the case is handled by the National Chamber in the fight against Discrimination and Racism. "They have a wide range of possible sanctions," Verhaegen said. "This could range from alternative sanctions, such as a club having to start a campaign against racism or having to work with a certain group of supporters, to fines and behind-closed-doors matches."
When the federal court will establish this federal action, and hence a case review, is unclear. "In theory, we have two years, but we won't use this full timeframe. We will complete the case file as soon as possible," Verhaegen added.
