Lazio face UEFA probe for racism

Thursday's game was held up after racist abuse was aimed at Sparta's Zimbabwe defender Costa Nhamoinesu.

The match, which ended 1-1, was delayed in the first half as appeals were made over the public address system to supporters.

UEFA said in a statement that Lazio have been charged for "racist behaviour" and "illicit chants".

Sparta also face proceedings for an illicit banner and setting off fireworks.

"The case will be dealt with by the UEFA Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body on March 22," said the UEFA statement.

In February, Lazio were fined 50,000 euros ($56,000) and had a two-match partial stadium ban imposed after fans targeted Napoli's Senegal defender Kalidou Koulibaly with racist monkey chants in a Serie A game.