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22nd October 2007

Bundesliga to show red card to racism

The Bundesliga's 36 clubs will unite for the next two rounds of the competition to show racism a collective red card, the German Football League (DFL) announced on Wednesday.

Before last weekend's 18 first and second Bundesliga games, all players, trainers and referees involved will each held up a red cardboard placard in a symbolic gesture to "give racism the red card".

The initiative, to promote tolerance and respect in football, is part of a movement across the continent called Football against racism in Europe (FARE).

"Millions of fans follow the Bundesliga week after week, supporting the stars of their club, regardless of their origin or colour," said DFL president Reinhard Rauball.

Fans at all Bundesliga games last weekend and next will be handed red placards and invited to join in the gesture before kick-off.

Certain areas of Germany, particularly in the former GDR, have encountered problems with racism.

In September 2006, Schalke 04 striker Gerald Asamoah was the target of racist abuse during a game against Hansa Rostock.

The German Football Federation (DFB) ordered Rostock to pay a record fine of 20,000 euros.

Source: UEFA