UEFA to investigate racism claims

UEFA will look into the racist chanting that erupted during England's recent trip to Bulgaria at a hearing in Switzerland on October 13. Allegations about the behaviour of both sets of supporters were made in the wake of England's 3-0 Euro 2012 qualifying win. It was claimed by some England players that they heard the black members of their team being abused by home fans. In response, it was pointed out that some England supporters attacked the Romany heritage of their Bulgarian counterparts. The Football Association made their displeasure known at the time and reported the matter to the official UEFA observer. Now a hearing will take placing at UEFA headquarters in Nyon, at which it is anticipated evidence from a number of parties, including the FA, will be presented. Although UEFA's powers in such matters are wide-ranging, it would be a surprise if the end outcome amounted to any more than a fine. "A hearing will take place on October 13 in Switzerland," said a UEFA spokeswoman. "The standard procedure in these cases is that both parties will present their observations in writing and that is what we expect to happen in this instance."