Barcelona reported Paris St-Germain to UEFA after supporters displayed a controversial banner ahead of their Champions League match. The Spanish club stated that the visual incited violence and hatred within sport.
Chainsaw Tifo Condemned by Barcelona
Prior to kick-off at the Parc des Princes, fans positioned behind one of the goals revealed a large display showing a masked individual wearing a PSG jersey obliterating the Barcelona emblem with a chainsaw. Below this illustration, a caption in French read “massacre, Parisian style.” Additional banners containing explicit language appeared during the fixture, prompting Barcelona to issue a strong condemnation of the supporters’ behavior.
On the pitch, Barcelona suffered a 4-2 defeat in the French capital following victories in their initial two Champions League fixtures.
Official Club Statement and Regulations
Addressing BBC Sport in a statement, Barcelona expressed deep concern over the display in the stands. The club noted that the visuals of a blood-stained chainsaw targeting the crest were deeply distressing and promoted violence and hatred.
Barcelona added that such language and imagery are unacceptable and violate the core values of fair play, respect, and sportsmanship essential to football. The club emphasized that the sport should remain an environment for healthy competition, mutual respect, and passion, entirely clear of messages encouraging hatred or violence.
UEFA disciplinary regulations under article 16 specify that utilizing gestures, words, objects, or alternative methods to convey provocative messages unsuitable for a sports event can trigger disciplinary action, carrying a minimum fine of 10,000 euros for an initial violation.
BBC Sport reached out to both UEFA and Paris St-Germain to request comments regarding the incident.
Source: BBC Sport
