Sunday, May 22, 2011

Video, Marcelo statement not enough for UEFA’s Busquets case

UEFA constantly talks about their strict position against all forms of racism. "Our message is clear," they say. "Zero tolerance against racism, violence and doping." Not only is racism one of the three prongs of their clear message, it's first one they list. I mean, how can you possibly make anything more clear?

So, with that in mind, you might think that close-up video of Sergio Busquets (that was first brought to light by a third party TV station) and a statement from Marcelo alleging that the Barca player said "mono" (monkey) and not "mucho morro" as he claims would be more than enough evidence for UEFA to make Busquets fall to the ground and cover his face as their ban hammer slammed down upon him. Well, if you did think that, you were wrong. Very, very wrong.

It turns out UEFA is far more willing to give a player accused of racism the benefit of the doubt. And by UEFA I mean "The chairman of the UEFA Control and Disciplinary Body, acting as a judge sitting alone," who dismissed the case.

So, now we know. UEFA really does take racism super serious, but if a player is accused of it, anything short of a notarized confession will be deemed "a lack of strong and convincing evidence."

Majandra Delfino Maria Bello Jennifer Gareis Ashlee Simpson Donna Feldman

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