FIFA fines England 45,000 Swiss francs over poppy tribute

PanARMENIAN.Net - FIFA has fined all four home nations for displaying poppies during World Cup qualifiers around Armistice Day, BBC Sport reports.

England and Scotland players wore armbands featuring the symbol when they met at Wembley on November 11.

Wales and Northern Ireland's respective games featured displays on the pitch or in the stands to mark the event.

England have been fined 45,000 Swiss francs (£35,311), Scotland and Wales 20,000 Sfr (£15,694) and Northern Ireland 15,000 Sfr (£11,770).

Fifa disciplinary committee chairman Claudio Sulser said he "fully respected" the commemorations but stressed the rules "need to be applied to all member associations".

"The display, among others, of any political or religious symbol is strictly prohibited," he added.

"In the stadium and on the pitch, there is only room for sport, nothing else."