© EuroFootball.com
The governing body of European football UEFA on Monday accepted amendments to the rules, under which racists and "divers" will be punished more strictly.
The new UEFA rules mean that any player who "in any way insults human dignity on the grounds of race, skin colour, religion or ethnic origin" will face a minimum three-match suspension, which can be extended by two more matches.
Clubs whose fans make racist or other offensive insults to players will face a minimum fine of 19 thousand euros. For more serious offenses, clubs may face harsher penalties, such as playing matches in an empty stadium.
UEFA also announced that extremist propaganda is now banned in stadiums, and clubs that disregard these rules may face penalties such as a technical defeat, deduction of points, or disqualification from certain tournaments.
UEFA has now ordered a stricter approach towards "divers" and simulators, who will try to deceive the referee by faking an injury. Players who engage in simulation may be punished with a two-match suspension.
However, the new rules confirm that the referee's decision on the field is final. After the match, the referee's decision can only be changed in cases of a clear mistake, such as a mix-up of the "offending" player's name.
Clubs whose players receive five or more yellow cards during a match may also face sanctions.
UEFA, along with FIFA, stated that national football federations that do not comply with the new rules may be removed from FIFA - the international football association.
