Airdrie defender Rico Quitongo claims he was racially abused by one of his own fans
Last updated 15th Sep 2021
Airdrie defender Rico Quitongo has claimed he was racially abused by one of his own supporters.
The 22-year-old alleges the incident happened during Airdrieonians' match against Queen's Park at Firhill on Saturday.
In a statement on Twitter, he says he is "not surprised", but is "hugely disappointed".
Quitongo says Airdrie are investigating.
He said: "I absolutely don't deserve to be personally abused for my skin colour.
"I'm all for banter with fans etc but I will not tolerate it whatsoever.
"I am proud to be black and proud to be who I am.
"The club have a pending investigation and are supporting me as much as they can, but you can't always catch the idiots who make these remarks which upsets me.
"More needs done for cowards to change."
In a statement, Airdrie said: "As a club, Airdrieonians will not tolerate racism. Any individual using racist language is not welcome at Airdrieonians FC and will face a lifetime ban from attending matches.
"Anyone who witnessed or heard the incident during the match against Queen’s Park last Saturday should contact the club in the strictest of confidence at boardofdirectors@airdriefc.com
"Rico Quitongo has the full support of everyone at the club. Many of our supporters have contacted the club directly expressing their support and respect for Rico.
"Pending the results of the investigation, the club will be making no further comment."
Police Scotland have been approached for comment.
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