FIFA have confirmed a fine has been imposed the Russian Football Union for 30,000 Swiss francs (£22,000) for racist abuse directed at French players by Russian fans during a pre-World Cup friendly.
A Reuters photographer at pitch level for France’s 3-1 win against Russia in March in St Petersburg heard monkey chants directed at French players on several occasions, including when N’Golo Kante came to the sideline for a throw-in.
France won the game 3-1, courtesy of a brace from Kylian Mbappe and an effort from midfielder Paul Pogba.
Fedor Smolov scored the only goal of the game for the home side.
Russia has pledged to crack down on racism as the country faces increased scrutiny ahead of this year’s World Cup, which it will host from June 14 to July 15 in 11 cities including Moscow, St Petersburg and Sochi.
The World Cup is set to get under way on Thursday, June 14, when Russia will face Saudi Arabia.
The Luzhniki stadium – which staged the 2008 Champions League final between Manchester United and Chelsea – will play host to the opening fixture.