The HCB was exonerated. © Vanna Antonello

Accusations of racism: No punishment against the HCB

The legal commission of the ICE Hockey League has completed the investigation into the alleged racist statements during and after the fourth semi-final game between HCB Südtirol Alperia and Red Bull Salzburg.

March 28, 2024

From: sn

“After reviewing and examining the statements and perception reports received, the Legal Commission states that no further steps needed to be taken in view of the lack of objectivity of the alleged incidents,” the league wrote in a press release. “Under all the available evidence, discriminatory behavior, particularly monkey noises, cannot be objectified. In addition, neither the players and supervisors of both teams nor the match officials and league representatives present in the Sparkasse Arena noticed the alleged noises,” it continues.

According to the press release, the incidents described in media reports while leaving the hall or boarding the team bus did not take place after consultation with everyone present and in particular the players and coaches from EC Red Bull Salzburg. However, it cannot naturally be ruled out that individual people among the 5.012 fans made discriminatory noises, "which could only have been audible to people in the immediate vicinity."

Clear statement from the club and league

Although no penalty was imposed, the league requires clubs to take tougher action in the coming games. “For further games, the clubs are asked to instruct the steward service again to identify people who show discriminatory behavior, expel them from the hall immediately and report accordingly. The clubs are also required to initiate an indoor visit ban procedure against identifiable visitors who make discriminatory comments based on the respective national laws.”

The ICE Hockey League reiterates that it categorically rejects any form of xenophobia and discrimination and is committed to promoting and protecting these values ​​in its activities. “The ice hockey family stands for diversity, equal opportunities and respect.” The HCB had previously reacted to the events.