Football: Liverpool's Balotelli fined, given ban

Mario Balotelli in action for Liverpool against Manchester United. Photo Reuters
Mario Balotelli in action for Liverpool against Manchester United. Photo Reuters
Controversial Liverpool forward Mario Balotelli has been suspended for one match by the FA and fined 25,000 pounds after posting an offensive message on social media.

Earlier this month, the Italian showed a picture on his Instagram account containing racist and anti-Semitic connotations.

"Mario Balotelli has been fined 25,000 pounds, suspended for one match with immediate effect, subject to appeal, and warned as to his future conduct after he admitted breaching FA rules in relation to social media," the FA said in a statement.

"The charge was that an image the Liverpool player posted on social media was abusive and/or insulting and/or improper.

"The posting was considered to be an 'aggravated breach' as defined in FA Rule E3 (2) in that it included a reference to ethnic origin and/or colour and/or race and/or nationality and/or religion or belief."

Balotelli, who quickly removed the picture and later apologised, has also been ordered to attend an educational programme.

The 24-year-old, who has a history of on and off-the-field misdemeanours, joined Liverpool from AC Milan in August but has managed just two goals in 15 games for the Premier League club.

 

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