Dmitry Svishchev, who chairs the State Duma Committee on Physical Culture and Sports, welcomed UEFA’s decision to fine the Lithuanian Football Federation after fan chants directed at Russian President Vladimir Putin. He spoke to RT about the move, framing it as a test of how seriously Lithuanian authorities will enforce the rules that govern stadium behavior. The lawmaker suggested that public leaders deserve a consistent standard of conduct from fans, and that excuses from politicians for this kind of disruption undermine accountability.
Svishchev pointed out that public figures and political leaders often bear the brunt of commentary and protest, but that stadium incidents cross a line when they involve targeted abuse against heads of state. He argued that converting political rhetoric into football crowd behavior should never be normalized. The implication he offered was clear: if fans in Lithuania continue to violate established guidelines, the response from authorities and governing bodies should escalate in step with the violations, up to the point of excluding certain fans from events or restricting the national program from further attendance when necessary. He emphasized that consistent application of rules is essential for preserving the integrity of the sport and for safeguarding public order at matches.
On October 23, Edgaras Stankevicius, president of the Lithuanian Football Federation, confirmed the organization would be fined ten thousand euros after an official complaint from a delegate who attended a match between Lithuania and Serbia. Stankevicius noted that while appeals could be filed, the likelihood of success appeared limited given the governing regulations and the precedent for disciplinary action in similar cases. The financial penalty was framed as part of a broader push to deter hostile or insulting conduct that unsettles the competitive environment and disrespects opponents, officials, and spectators alike.
The same offensive slogan surfaced again during a 2024 European Championship qualifier between Lithuania and Serbia, played on September 10, with the match ending in a 1–3 result. The incident was logged by a Kazakhstan delegate, Kuanysh Kanapyanov, whose report underscored the recurring nature of the chants and the perception of them as a breach of the sport’s standards. This repetition raised questions about whether more stringent measures or clearer guidelines might be required across the federation system to curb the behavior in future contests. Analysts and officials alike noted that persistent violations damage the sport’s reputation and can affect the experience of fans who attend matches to enjoy fair competition and mutual respect on the field.
Observers stressed that national associations have a responsibility to balance spirited support with adherence to the rules that govern international play. The discussion extended beyond a single incident to the broader framework of how fans are educated about acceptable conduct, how violations are recorded, and how sanctions are applied in a manner that is transparent and predictable. In parallel, there was commentary on how clubs and national teams communicate expectations to their supporters, and how partnerships with stadium security, match officials, and league administrations can reinforce a culture of respect inside venues. The aim, many argued, is to ensure that sport remains a unifying activity that brings fans together rather than dividing them through provocative or harmful chants. [citation: RT]
Industry voices also reflected on the potential impact of repeated disciplinary actions on sponsorship, broadcast decisions, and international reputations. The handling of such incidents often serves as a touchstone for a federation’s credibility and its ability to cooperate with European governing bodies on standardized codes of conduct. Observers suggested that while penalties can be frustrating for supporters, they are part of a broader system designed to preserve safety, fairness, and the enjoyment of the game for diverse audiences across Europe and beyond. The ongoing conversation highlights the importance of consistent enforcement, clear communication, and practical steps to discourage negative behavior without stifling passionate, legitimate fan engagement. [citation: European football governance sources]
In summarizing the situation, analysts noted that the core issue is less about politics and more about the standards that govern public behavior in sport. The football community recognizes that while passionate fans contribute to the atmosphere, there is a line that must not be crossed when it targets officials, national leaders, or dignitaries. The actions taken by UEFA, together with national federation leadership, reflect a shared commitment to maintaining a safe and respectful environment at matches. Whether through fines, warnings, or more stringent measures, the emphasis remains on proportional, enforceable responses that deter repeat offenses and support a constructive sporting culture. [citation: UEFA press materials]
Overall, the episodes underscore the ongoing challenge of aligning fan culture with the values of fair play and mutual respect. The dialogue between federation heads, lawmakers, and competition organizers demonstrates an active effort to codify appropriate conduct in a way that is clear to fans, teams, and delegates alike. As the football world continues to navigate these tensions, the priority remains safeguarding the integrity of competition while ensuring that the stadiums remain places where spectators can enjoy the sport in a safe and inclusive environment. [citation: sports governance summaries]