International monitors to keep strict surveillance on racism during Euros

London, Jun 2(ANI): Any incident of racism, discrimination or far-right banners being put on show by supporters during the Euro Cup would come under heavy scrutiny, as international monitors will be deployed at every match in Poland and Ukraine throughout the tournament.

Fare, the European anti-racism in football umbrella organisation would deploy two monitors during every game.

The anti-racism organisation also believes UEFA is committed to taking disciplinary action if necessary.

The monitors can draw incidents to the urgent attention of stewards or some 80,000 police.

The stewards have undergone discrimination awareness training within grounds, as well as reporting to UEFA officials.

UEFA also reminded referees last month, that they have the authority to stop games if players are being racially abused.

There will also be anti-discrimination messages displayed prominently inside the grounds, and Fare has set up a telephone hotline for supporters to report any racist incidents.

"We have well-documented issues with discrimination in football but I am also confident of the strong message that will be sent out and the contingencies we have to deal with problems," The Independent quoted Rafal Pankowski of Never Again, a Warsaw-based anti-racist watchdog, as saying.

The build-up to the tournament in Poland and Ukraine has been overshadowed by fears that black and Asian supporters will be abused at matches. (ANI)