FIFA to introduce new, tougher `five-game ban` rules to crack down on racism

London: World football governing body FIFA is reportedly set to introduce a slew of new, tougher punishments as they bid to finally crack down on racism.

Under the new rules, football clubs will face a warning, fine or will have to play a game behind closed doors for first or `minor` offences. Their points could be cut, and they could be thrown out of competitions or even relegated for second offences or serious incidents. FIFA also gave the green light to harsher punishments for individuals found guilty of racist behaviour, who will now face a minimum five-game ban. Although Chelsea captain John Terry received just a four-game FA ban last October after being found guilty of racially abusing Queens Park Rangers defender Anton Ferdinand, but Liverpool striker Luis Suarez was hit with an eight-game ban after abusing Manchester United defender Patrice Evra. ANI