PSG face UEFA punishment after Barcelona complain over controversial banner

PSG face UEFA punishment after Barcelona complain over controversial banner Paris Saint-Germain are facing potential disciplinary action from UEFA after Barcelona complained about an inflammatory banner displayed by PSG supporters before their 4-2 Champions League victory at the Parc des Princes.  According to Mundo Deportivo , the incident is expected to lead to a financial penalty, while a partial stadium closure or a warning over future sanctions could also be considered.  Barcelona report PSG over chainsaw banner The banner, unveiled before kick-off, featured an image of hands wielding a chainsaw to destroy the Barcelona crest alongside the words “Parisian Massacre”.  Other banners displayed during the match reportedly contained the offensive phrase “Puta Barça”. Barcelona confirmed that it would report the incident to UEFA , objecting to imagery the club considered incompatible with the values of respect and fair play expected in football.  The complaint places PSG under scrutiny over the conduct of the fans at one of European football’s most prominent club fixtures. As per the outlet, the incident could bring both a financial penalty and additional stadium-related sanctions. However, the final punishment has not been officially confirmed by UEFA. So what happens now? UEFA’s Disciplinary Code prohibits the use of sporting events for non-sporting demonstrations or conduct that discredits football and the governing body.  Its regulations also place responsibility on host clubs and national associations for maintaining order and security around matches. The rules state, “Host clubs and national associations are responsible for order and security both inside and around the stadium before, during and after matches.  “All associations and clubs must comply with the obligations set out in the UEFA Security Regulations.” The regulations further specify,  “They are responsible for any type of incident and may be subject to disciplinary measures and guidelines, unless they can demonstrate that they have not been negligent in the organization of the match.” UEFA also identifies “the use of gestures, words, objects or any other means to convey a provocative message that is not appropriate for a sporting event, in particular provocative messages of a political, ideological, religious or offensive nature” as sanctionable conduct. These provisions give UEFA a basis to examine the display and determine whether PSG should face disciplinary measures.  The governing body will now assess the incident before any final punishment can be established.