UEFA urges players to speak out against teammates, fans after racist incidents at matches

SOFIA, Bulgaria – UEFA's executive committee wants soccer players to speak out against teammates and fans after racist incidents.

UEFA says its ruling board has ratified a proposal on tackling discrimination from its Professional Football Strategy Council, chaired by President Michel Platini, which asks for tougher sanctions.

It calls for "players and coaches ... to speak out, even if this may mean criticizing their own fans or players."

The UEFA strategy panel, including delegates from national associations, leagues, clubs and players' unions, met Wednesday and urged competition organizers to tell referees "to stop matches in cases of racism."

It calls on state authorities to "arrest, prosecute and ban from stadia for significant periods those responsible for racist acts."

The proposal states "full and unconditional opposition to any form of discrimination."