Football's world governing body FIFA confirmed in Zurich, Switzerland Tuesday it had banned the use of Harare National Stadium for international matches after 13 people were crushed to death there on Sunday.
FIFA spokesman Keith Cooper said they took the decision after having asked for more information on the tragedy from the Zimbabwe Football Association, ZIFA.
ZIFA were due to send them the report by July 17, he said. The information would then be studied by the organizing commission of the 2002 World Cup and if necessary by the FIFA discipline commission, which could decide to take sanctions, Cooper said.
He expressed FIFA's regret about Sunday's tragedy, which saw police fire teargas into the stands after disgruntled Zimbabwe fans threw bottles on to the pitch following South Africa's second goal in the World Cup qualifying match.
The victims were trampled to death in the ensuing stampede as fans tried to leave the stadium.
Cooper said use of the stadium for international games was suspended until the decision of the FIFA organizing commission. He confirmed an earlier statement by ZIFA spokesman in Harare Peter Mukuna - (AFP)
© 2000 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)
