FIFA President describes alleged racist abuse towards Antoine Semenyo as 'unacceptable'
The incident happened during Liverpool's 4-2 win against Bournemouth in the first game of the Premier League season
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has condemned the alleged racist abuse directed at Bournemouth's Antoine Semenyo during the opening game of the Premier League season at Liverpool.
The sport's governing body will reach out to the forward to offer their support - with Infantino saying "the whole football community stands firmly" with Semenyo.
In a statement, Infantino said: “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."
He said the Players' Voice Panel, established as part of the five pillars against racism adopted by Fifa Congress in 2024, would be in touch with Antoine and is monitoring these situations closely.
“We are committed to ensuring that players are respected and protected, and that competition organisers and law enforcement authorities take appropriate action.”
Premier League CEO Richard Masters also issued a warning that anyone guilty of racist abuse would be banned from stadiums and could face prosecution.
A man was arrested on Saturday, following a complaint from Semenyo during Friday night's match that he had been racially abused by a fan.
A spokesperson for Liverpool Football Club said it is aware of the allegation of racist abuse and that "we condemn racism and discrimination in all forms, it has no place in society, or football".
The Football Association said it was "concerned" about the allegation of racism towards Semenyo and that it would ensure "appropriate action" would be taken.
West Yorkshire Police said a Luton Town supporter was arrested at the match against Bradford City at Valley Parade after an officer saw him making racist gestures at a home player shortly before half time.
"The 51-year-old man was removed from the ground and arrested on suspicion of behaving in a threatening, abusive or disorderly manner likely to cause harassment alarm or distress," the force said.