UEFA has imposed a €95,500 fine on Serbian powerhouse FK Crvena Zvezda following fan choreography during their February 26 Europa League knockout clash against LOSC Lille. The penalty, detailed in the Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body’s March 25 decisions, targets incidents at Rajko Mitić Stadium—including fireworks (€17,000), object-throwing (€10,500), blocked passageways (€28,000), and crucially, a €40,000 hit for “transmitting a message not fit for a sports event” plus bringing football and UEFA into disrepute.
UEFA hits Serbian club FK Crvena Zvezda with €95,500 penalty for fan tifo featuring Orthodox icon and “May our faith lead you to victory” banner during Lille clash—sparking debate on faith in football
The display—a massive tifo by ultras group Delije Sever—featured a towering Orthodox icon (depicted as Jesus Christ or Saint Simeon the Myrrh-flowing, tied to his feast day) alongside the banner “May our faith lead you to victory.” UEFA ruled it inappropriate, breaching rules on non-sporting messages, though no explicit religious detail appears in the official report.
Red Star lost 0-2 (1-2 aggregate), exiting the competition amid electric atmosphere. The tifo went viral for its scale and devotion, sparking backlash over perceived double standards—fans argue faith displays get punished while others slide.
Here are stunning shots from the North Stand that night—pure spectacle:
Allowed ✅. Not allowed. 🚫 crazy pic.twitter.com/a9LHBGHTIE
— H (@uzumyrmw) March 27, 2026
The club can appeal, but the fine stands as UEFA tightens grip on stadium expressions. Serbian pride meets European rules—debate’s just getting started.