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Roma stand closed after more racial abuse from fans

UNOCCUPIED: Stadio Olimpico

SERIE A club Roma has been ordered to close one of its spectator stands for one game after fans racially abused AC Milan striker Mario Balotelli two weeks ago.

The Rome football club’s Curva Sud consists of many of Roma's fanatical supporters, widely known as the ultras, inside the Stadio Olimpico.

Despite stepping out on to the field ahead of Roma-Napoli wearing anti-racism shirts, a section of the ultras in the Curva Sud were again heard hurling racist abuse at opposition players on May 19.

The Curva Sud will be shut for the first game of next season, following a fine of just over £42,000 by the Italian Football Association for racist abuse aimed at former Manchester City forward Balotelli during a match on May 12.

However, the stand will not be shut during the Coppa Italia Final between Roma and fierce local rivals Lazio on May 26.

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