UEFA are threatening to impose suspensions of up to three seasons on people found guilty of racist abuse.
UEFA say they are determined to eradicate the problem although they are stopping short of long-term bans.
"Punishment for life is a definite thing and doesn't give any chance of anyone correcting their way of behaving," said chief executive Gerhard Aigner.
"I think yes we should be firm, we should ban them for a certain period of time.
England duo Emile Heskey and Ashley Cole were subjected to racist chants during England's Euro 2004 qualifier in Slovakia last week.
Aigner said the inquiry into the abuse the two players suffered is ongoing.
PA
