UEFA, the European football body has banned Barcelona from selling tickets to fans for their next away game against Red Star Belgrade in the Champions League. This decision came after a banner with Nazi overtones, directed at the team's new German coach, was displayed by fans. During Barcelona's 2-1 loss at Monaco last week, a black flag with the words "Flick Heil," seemingly referencing coach Hansi Flick, was displayed. UEFA has since charged the club with "racism and/or other discriminatory conduct." As a result, the ban will be enforced on November 6 when Barcelona faces Red Star Belgrade.
“The Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body (CEDB) has decided to order the enforcement of the suspended disciplinary measure imposed by the UEFA Appeals Body in its decision on 17 April 2024 for the racist behaviour of its supporters, i.e. to ban FC Barcelona from selling tickets to its away supporters for the next UEFA competition match in accordance with Article 26(3) of the UEFA Disciplinary Regulations,” UEFA said.
Barcelona slapped with a fine of 10,000 euros and given an additional one-match ban from selling tickets to their away fans, though that ban has been suspended for one year.
Barcelona had a rough start to their Champions League campaign, losing 2-1 to AS Monaco on Thursday after an early setback with defender Eric Garcia being sent off.
Garcia was shown red for pulling back Takumi Minamino, who had intercepted a poor pass from Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen.
The defeat ended Barcelona’s perfect start to the season under new coach Hansi Flick, after winning their first five LaLiga games. Monaco took the lead in the 16th minute, with midfielder Maghnes Akliouche scoring from the right side of the penalty area, with French national team coach Didier Deschamps in the stands.
Barcelona are currently leading the La Liga standings with 21 points from 7 matches.