Atletico Madrid Fined for Racist Behavior by Fans at Champions League Game at Arsenal

December 2, 2025

UEFA has imposed sanctions on Atletico Madrid following racist incidents by their supporters during a Champions League match against Arsenal in London. The Spanish club's fans were reported making monkey noises and performing Nazi salutes during their team's 4-0 defeat last month. As punishment, UEFA issued a 30,000 euro fine and implemented a one-year probationary period with a suspended one-game away ticket sales ban.

Who is affected

Atletico Madrid (the club facing sanctions)
Atletico Madrid fans (subject to the ticket ban and responsible for the racist behavior)
Arsenal (host club where incidents occurred)
Black players and fans affected by racist abuse
Vinícius Júnior (previously targeted by similar abuse from Atletico fans)

What action is being taken

UEFA is fining Atletico Madrid 30,000 euros
UEFA is placing Atletico on one-year probation
UEFA is imposing a deferred one-game ban on selling tickets to fans for European away games
UEFA is fining Atletico an additional 10,000 euros for fans throwing objects

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing problem of racism in European football and demonstrates UEFA's efforts to hold clubs accountable for their fans' discriminatory behavior. The sanctions send a message that racist conduct, including monkey noises and Nazi salutes, will result in financial and operational penalties for clubs, which is particularly significant given Atletico's history of similar incidents involving racial abuse.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint