FIFA president Gianni Infantino has condemned the racist abuse aimed at Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo during a Premier League match against Liverpool, stating that the world football governing body will reach out to the Ghana international to offer its support.
Semenyo was targeted by an individual in the crowd at Anfield during the first half of the match on Friday, prompting referee Anthony Taylor to halt play in order to address the incident. Taylor spoke with both managers and the captains before resuming the game.
Merseyside Police reported that a 47-year-old man was removed from Anfield. On Saturday, they confirmed that the man from Liverpool had been arrested on suspicion of a racially aggravated public order offence and taken into custody for questioning.
On Saturday, Semenyo expressed his gratitude to his teammates, Liverpool, the match officials, and the “entire football family” for their support.
“Football has no place for racism or any form of discrimination. Antoine’s courage and performance on the pitch, despite such adversity, is a powerful example of strength and dignity for players worldwide,” Infantino stated in a press release.
“The Players’ Voice Panel, established as part of the five pillars against racism adopted by the FIFA Congress in 2024, will be in contact with Antoine and is closely monitoring such situations.
“We are dedicated to ensuring that players are respected and protected, and that competition organisers and law enforcement agencies take appropriate action.”
Semenyo also revealed that he faced racial abuse online following the match.
Premier League Chief Executive Richard Masters reiterated on Saturday that anyone found guilty of racist abuse would be banned from stadiums and could face prosecution.
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