UEFA has handed a 10-match ban to a Belgian futsal player for making a 'quenelle' gesture during the Futsal Euro 2014 in Belgium.
Omar Rahou made the gesture "several times" while celebrating a goal for his country during a group game.
The Belgian later denied knowing what a 'quenelle' is, but European football's governing body has still decided to impose the punishment on the 21-year-old.
"The fight against racism and other discriminatory conducts is a high priority for UEFA," read a statement from UEFA.
"The European governing body has a zero-tolerance policy towards racism and discrimination on the pitch and in the stands. All forms of racist behaviour are considered serious offences against the disciplinary regulations and are punished with the most severe sanctions.
"Following the entry into force of the new disciplinary regulations on June 1, 2013, the fight against racist conduct has been stepped up a level – resulting in more severe sanctions to deter any such behaviour."
West Bromwich Albion striker Nicolas Anelka was handed a five-match ban and fined £80,000 by the English FA last month for making a similar gesture during his side's Premier League match against West Ham United on December 28.
Subhankar Mondal
