European football's governing body has fined Raków Częstochowa after supporters displayed an anti-Israel banner during a UEFA Conference League match against Maccabi Haifa. The incident sparked widespread condemnation and led to a €20,000 fine for the offensive message, plus an additional €10,000 for displaying an unsuitable message at the event. Raków also faced penalties for pyrotechnics used during the game.
The controversy escalated when Maccabi Haifa fans responded with a provocative banner referencing Poland's World War II history during the return leg in Israel. This act drew outrage in Poland and prompted further disciplinary action from UEFA, with both clubs now facing charges for transmitting messages deemed inappropriate for sporting events. The ambassadors of Israel and Poland have publicly condemned the incidents, warning against political extremism undermining bilateral relations.
Raków ultimately won the tie, eliminating Maccabi Haifa from the competition.