Juventus has lost its appeal against a one-match ban for fans' racist abuse of Inter Milan player Mario Balotelli earlier this month.
In turning down the plea, the Italian Soccer Federation (FIGC) court of justice confirmed that Juve will have to play its next home match, against Lecce on Sunday, behind closed doors.
In its appeal, Juve argued that it could have done nothing about the racist booing directed by some sections of the crowd against the Palermo-born striker of Ghanaian origin after he scored the opener in the April 18 1-1 draw in Turin.
It also pointed out the the club had strongly condemned the abuse.
Because of the incident, the FIGC has said referees can stop matches because of racist chants.
Before the case officials were only empowered to suspend games if they saw racist banners displayed.
European soccer's ruling body UEFA has also enabled refs to call off matches in the event of racist abuse.
