An impromptu party thrown by jubilant Czech players after they qualified for Euro 2012 has marred the team’s image and drew a $100,000 fine from the Czech federation.
After beatingMontenegro twice in the European Championship playoffs, squad members at Podgorica airport formed a circle and started a chant suggesting former international striker Radek Drulak –a member of the Czechs’ runner-up Euro 1996 team who criticized the current squad — did not have genitals, in a scene that has become a YouTube hit.
The players then tore their officialsuits and, on arriving home, some marched through Prague’s airport lounge half-naked.
“I’m sorry the boys went out of their way to settle their accounts in this unfortunate way,” CoachVladimir Smicer said. “Of course I’m sorry we spoiled the fun for fans. We have half a year to boost our image … and go to the tournament as one team.”