At last they seem to be doing something about it, now only if they can stick to it

From football365.com
FIFA have vowed to clamp down over racism amongst supporters - and clubs whose fans are guilty of racist abuse can be deducted points or even relegated under new regulations approved by FIFA's executive committee.

The new penalties range from match suspensions to deductions of points - three for a first offence, six for a second and relegation for any further offences. FIFA have ordered confederations and member associations to incorporate the new penalties into their regulations and have threatened to exclude associations from international football for up to two years if they fail to do so.

The FIFA committee had heard evidence from Juventus defender Lilian Thuram prior to making their decision, and the France international was pleased with the outcome. He said: "Now the clubs and associations have an obligation to find a solution, they will find the solutions necessary to eliminate this plague."

The issue was highlighted once again at a recent Primera Liga game in Spain when Barcelona striker Samuel Eto'o was the subject of heavy abuse at Real Zaragoza.

The Cameroon international had to be persuaded by the referee and team-mates not to walk off the pitch.

FIFA President Sepp Blatter said: "I have repeatedly stressed FIFA's and my firm personal stance against racism and discrimination.

"But recent events have demonstrated there is a need for concerted action and an urgency for more severe measures to be adopted in order to kick this evil out of the beautiful game.

"I am therefore extremely pleased the football family and the FIFA executive committee have taken a big step in this direction."