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Slavia Prague hit with heavy sanctions after pitch invasion
Reigning Czech First League champions Slavia Prague have been fined 10 million Czech crowns (£357,000) and ordered to play four home matches without spectators following a pitch invasion during their derby against Sparta Prague, the league's disciplinary committee announced.
Match abandoned, result overturned
The incident occurred in the seventh minute of stoppage time at the Fortuna Arena, with Slavia leading 3-2 and on the verge of securing the league title. Hundreds of home supporters stormed the pitch, forcing the match to be abandoned. The League Football Association (LFA) ruled the result a 3-0 forfeit in favour of Sparta Prague, describing the episode as an "absolutely unacceptable incident."
Slavia's lead cut, lifetime bans promised
The sanctions reduce Slavia's lead at the top of the table to five points over second-placed Sparta. Club chairman Jaroslav Tvrdik confirmed that lifetime bans would be imposed on fans involved in the pitch invasion. In a statement, Slavia acknowledged the severity of the situation and expressed regret for the impact on law-abiding supporters.
"We accept the decision of the disciplinary committee with respect and are fully aware of the seriousness of the entire situation and the responsibility associated with organising the match."
Slavia Prague statement
Sparta also penalised for fan behaviour
Sparta Prague were fined 600,000 Czech crowns (£21,400) after their fans set off flares and caused damage to the stadium. Footage on social media showed players attempting to leave the pitch as supporters carrying lit flares ran toward the Sparta section. Sparta goalkeeper Jakub Surovcik appeared to be struck in the face by a flare thrown at close range.
Club condemns disruption, apologises to fans
Slavia Prague issued a statement condemning the pitch invasion and any form of inappropriate behaviour in the stadium. The club also apologised to the "tens of thousands of normal and decent fans" unaffected by the incident.
"Any disruption of the playing field or inappropriate behaviour in the stadium is unacceptable. At the same time, we are very sorry for the impact of this decision on tens of thousands of normal and decent fans who have nothing to do with the whole situation."
Slavia Prague
Next fixture looms amid fallout
Slavia's next match is scheduled for Wednesday, when they host Jablonec at home. The club will be eager to refocus on their title defence following the disciplinary fallout.
