Hosts crack the whip on violence and racism

SANTIAGO
Chile passed a new law on Tuesday to crack
down on violence and racism at football matches
ahead of the Copa America tournamen

Chile want to prevent the notorious South American
barra brava hooligans marring games and said
it will have zero tolerance for discrimination
and racism ,with tougher fines  and jail,sentences
for those who cross the line.

Twelve national teams from across the region play
in Chile between June 11 and July 4 in the Copa
America ,the world's oldest continental football
tournament.

With this new law we're not only going to sanction
those that deviate from the football  community
and spoil the sport,but also guarantee that fans and
families can enjoy the game safely and in pleasant
conditions said the government's acting Vice-President
Jorge Burgos.

Games featuring South American teams are renowned
for their colour and noise ,creating atmosphere that
can make European matches seem dour by comparsion
Some elements of that atmosphere can undermine
security and controls are being tighten ,the head of
the Chilean government's Safe Stadium Plan said.

Racism is also a serious issue ,with authorities in
Chile,Peru,Brazil and Argentina among those trying
to crack down discrimination.

I"m certain that collaboratlon between the different
police forces on the continent will allow us to make
this Copa America,"said Burgos,
REUTERS