England Receive Fine From UEFA For Laser Pointer And Disturbances
It was issued ahead of the Euro 2020 final
The FA has been fined for the behaviour of England fans during the Euro 2020 semi-final win on Wednesday.
The punishment, which was confirmed today (10 July), was given by UEFA and takes into account various incidents, including a laser pointer being shone at Denmark goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel, disturbances during the national anthems at Wembley and the setting off of fireworks inside the stadium.
The FA was charged with the three offences after the game and the sanctions were imposed following consideration by UEFA's control, ethics and disciplinary body.
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The FA has been fined £25,630 in total.
The laser incident happened as Schmeichel prepared to face a penalty during extra time of England's 2-1 win.
TV pictures showed a green light being shone on the Leicester player's face as Harry Kane lined up his spot-kick. Schmeichel saved Kane's initial shot but was beaten on the rebound for what proved the decisive goal.
UEFA also investigated the booing of the Danish national anthem prior to the game, which was attended by more than 60,000 people, and the setting off of fireworks by some fans.
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A statement from UEFA read: "The CEDB has decided to fine the English Football Association 30,000 euros for the use of laser pointer, disturbances during the national anthems and setting of fireworks."
The Leicester City star admitted that he spoke to ref Danny Makkelie about an earlier incident in the match which ended with an England victory.
The laser was shone in the 34-year-old's face before he saved Harry Kane's penalty in extra-time.
The England striker scored from the rebound to help the Three Lions to a 2-1 victory and they now face Italy in Sunday's final.
He said: "I did not experience it on the penalty kick because it was behind me on my right side. But I did experience it in the second half.
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"I told the referee. And he went to say something to one of the other officials."
The Metropolitan police said on Thursday evening (8 July) that the incident was still being dealt with by UEFA and was not yet a police matter.
It comes as a former Home Office minister said she understood police were looking into it, describing the incident as 'appalling'.
Speaking in the House of Lords, Baroness Williams of Trafford told peers: "Lord Thomas of Gresford mentioned about the incident with the laser pen.
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"It was an appalling incident and I have already asked about this. I understand the police are investigating it."
More to follow.
Amelia Ward