UEFA charges Bayern Munich for political banner

Associated Press

NYON, Switzerland (AP) — Bayern Munich faces disciplinary action after fans displayed a political banner supporting Kosovo at a Champions League match against Arsenal.

UEFA says it opened a disciplinary case against the defending champions.

A banner with the slogans "Say No To Racism. Say Yes To Kosovo" was shown at the last 16 match in Munich on Tuesday. Bayern advanced 3-1 on aggregate.

UEFA rules prohibit political statements and make clubs responsible for incidents at their own stadium. Clubs can be fined and, in more serious cases, have sections of their stadium closed.

Kosovo seceded from Serbia in 2008 but has been blocked from attaining full international recognition.

FIFA has allowed its member countries to play friendly matches against the Kosovo men's national team following long-standing opposition from UEFA.