The Serbian Football Association hung what is believed to be a political banner about Kosovo in its dressing room in connection with the losing match against Brazil in the World Cup in Qatar (0–2).
The banner was a map where Kosovo was included in the territory of Serbia and where the text “We will never give up” appeared.
Now the International Football Association Fifa has started an investigation and Serbia is at risk of being fined. Since before, Fifa has zero tolerance towards political messages.
Kosovo’s football federation has lodged a complaint with Fifa and the country’s sports minister, Hajrulla Ceku, describes Serbia’s actions as “xenophobic”.
Kosovo declared independence from Serbia in 2008 and was recognized the same year by, among others, Sweden. The national soccer team participates in qualifying games for both the European Championship and the World Cup.