UEFA warns Kazkh team after ritual animal slaughter

    Kazakhstan champions Shakhtar Karagandy have been warned they could face disciplinary action if they slaughter any more sheep before European games, UEFA said on Wednesday.
    "The UEFA Competition department has written to FC Shakhter Karagandy and informed them that animal slaughter was not acceptable in or around our competitions and that the club would face sanctions if it happens again," read a UEFA statement.
    Animal rights group PETA last week called on UEFA to ban the ritual slaughter of animals after reports that Shakhter had killed a sheep before their Champions League playoff tie at home to Celtic which they won 2-0.
    "We're very grateful for UEFA's swift and firm action condemning such cruel and archaic practices", said PETA's Mimi Bekhechi in a statement.
    "UEFA has sent a clear message that there is absolutely nothing sporting about violence towards animals."
    Shakhter were facing Celtic in Glasgow in their return match later today for a place in the group stage of Europe's lucrative top tier club competition, News.com.au wrote
    There were concerns Shakhter would repeat the ritual at Parkhead in the return leg this evening and, although it is now clear that will not happen, European football's governing body has made it clear that disciplinary proceedings will be launched if the practice is repeated.
    In a letter to Shakhter executive director Yerden Khalilin, UEFA competitions director Giorgio Marchetti said: "We were informed that an animal slaughter took place at some point prior to the UEFA Champions League fixture involving FC Shakhter Karagandy and Celtic FC at the Astana Arena on Tuesday 20 August 2013.
    "Although certain practices may be culturally rooted, they have no place in or around a sporting arena or event.
    "In this context, I would like to make you aware that animal slaughter on a football pitch or in a stadium before, during or after a UEFA competition match - or with reference to a UEFA competition - is totally improper, and will not be tolerated,” the LoughboroughEcho wrote.
    the Scottish SPCA said animals could only be slaughtered in Scotland in licensed premises and has asked Celtic to confirm that no sheep are allowed into the ground.
    Animal Concern Advice Line (Acal) has also written to Sir Stephen House, chief constable of Police Scotland, demanding that Mr Kumykov and his team are closely monitored during their stay in Scotland.
    Mike Flynn, chief superintendent of the SSPCA, said: “There are strict rules on the transport and slaughter of animals in Scotland and it is only permitted in licensed premises.
    “Killing a sheep in this way would be a criminal offence and anyone involved could face prosecution.
    “We are seeking assurance from Celtic Park that no sheep will be allowed on the premises ahead of the match.”
    Acal secretary John Robins wrote in his e-mail to Mr House: “I ask Police Scotland to closely monitor Mr Kumykov and his team during their stay in Scotland and if any attempt is made to repeat this superstitious nonsense and sacrifice a sheep, to immediately arrest all those involved and charge them,” the Scotsman wrote.