• First offence could lead to game behind closed doors • Repeat offenders face points deduction or demotion

This article is more than 7 years old

This article is more than 7 years old

Fifa's member countries have approved stricter punishments for racism in football, including the possible relegation of a club for serious offences.

World football's governing body passed the two-stage anti-racism resolution with a 99% majority at its congress in Mauritius on Friday, and the president, Sepp Blatter, said: "We are doing something now."

The regulations say a first or minor offence should be punished by a warning, fine or with a match having to be played behind closed doors. Serious or repeat offences can now be punished by a deduction of points, expulsion from a tournament or even relegation of the offending club.

Fifa also passed measures dictating that players or officials found guilty of racist abuse in any game should be banned for five matches. The sanction had previously only applied to Fifa internationals.

Additionally, the Fifa resolution provides for the presence of "a specialised official to be in the stadium to identify potential acts of racism or discrimination".

This official will ease the burden on the referee and his assistants.

Introducing the vote, Blatter said: "We have been through a difficult time. It has been a test for the world of football and for those who lead it.

"There have been despicable events this year that have cast a long shadow over football and the rest of society.

"I am speaking of the politics of hate – racism, ignorance, discrimination, intolerance, small-minded prejudice.

"That uncivilised, immoral and self-destructive force that we all detest."

Blatter said there was "a strong signal to the racists that their time is up".