Hong Kong Football Association has replied to allegations concerning the incidents during the Friendly match between the national teams of Hong Kong and Philippines

The PFF (Philippines Football Federation) has submitted a request to FIFA asking them to investigate the matter of disrespectful and discriminatory behavior by home fans during the friendly match between the national teams of Hong Kong and Philippines played on June 4, 2013 in Hong Kong.

Prior to the FIFA resolution on the issue the Hong Kong Football Association released their opinion on the incident:

“The allegation of disrespectful and discriminatory behavior by home fans is the first incident of this nature at a football match in Hong Kong. Hong Kong football fans have a long-standing and deserved reputation for their passion for football blended with decency and friendliness towards opposing fans and teams. The vast majority of fans at the match in question behaved in a respectful and peaceful manner and the HKFA would like to thank them for their on-going enthusiastic support. It is important that their exemplary behaviour is acknowledged. The allegation of racist and discriminatory behavior and the initial investigation concerns the behavior of a small minority of people.
The HKFA is fully supportive of the latest FIFA resolution on the fight against racism and discrimination. No amount of political tension or provocation or frustration can justify any incidence of racist or discriminatory behaviour. For the avoidance of doubt, the HKFA will not condone or excuse any such acts.
Notwithstanding the potential FIFA investigation, the HKFA will be taking a number of actions in an attempt to avoid any such incidents occurring in the future. These include:
• For future matches we will formalize our ‘risk assessment’ protocols and ensure that an Anti-Discrimination Officer is in the Stadium
• As part of the risk assessment process and on a match by match basis we will consider the formal segregation of opposing spectators and the use of designated seats.
• Working with the authorities to find ways to identify fans that transgress with a view to imposing two-year bans in accordance with FIFA Statutes
• Making public announcements at the stadium, as appropriate and necessary, warning all fans of the outcome of using racist language and asking them to respect National Anthems
• Giving further training to Ground Stewards and working with the law enforcement agencies, in relation to the handling and in particular the identification and ejection or apprehension of spectators engaged in racist activity
• In accordance with the recent FIFA Resolution on the Fight Against Racism and Discrimination, the HKFA will prepare an Education Action Plan
• Using the HKFA website to educate fans about racism and respect for others for every future match
The HKFA will not tolerate any acts of racism or discrimination from spectators, players, coaches or administrators and will take the appropriate action against offenders.
The HKFA would like to make it clear that it will participate willingly and diligently in any further investigation instigated by FIFA. Furthermore, it goes without saying that the HKFA will respect and comply with any ruling made by FIFA.”