Racism is a longstanding issue in sports, especially soccer, impacting countless players who have faced challenges on the field. Many modern-day stars have openly addressed this problem, with players like Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo recently shedding light on the racial abuse they have encountered throughout their careers.
The Premier League has actively shown solidarity in addressing the global issue of racism by supporting initiatives such as Black Lives Matter and advocating for the rights of the LGBTQ community. However, despite these efforts, one EPL star player is currently under investigation for alleged involvement in a racist incident.
Premier League player facing police probing after racial row
Reportedly, an unnamed star player in the Premier League is currently under investigation for allegedly verbally attacking a staff member of a luxurious apartment with derogatory racial slurs while in a drunken state. The victim, an English-African individual in his 50s, was on duty at the reception when the incident occurred on December 10.
The staff claimed that he initially tried to assist the player, who was reportedly intoxicated; however, the situation escalated into racial abuse. It is stated that the staff was not aware of the player’s identity, as he was not a keen follower of the sport.
The victim made the shocking revelation to The Sun, stating, âHe started losing his temper, telling me to give him the âf***ing keyâ, Then he called me a âc***â. I told him, âWait a few minutes and my colleague will be back. He has access to the keys.”
âThen he was swearing more at me and said, âGive me the key, you f***ing n*****.â I draw the line at that. I was appalled and disgusted. I said to him, âI will not tolerate that. Do not use that word towards me. He was shouting at me, âDo you know who I f***ing am? You will never work here again.â He said the N-word again.â
The Metropolitan Police statement stated: âOn December 13, a 50-year-old man contacted police to report he had been racially abused by another man as he worked as a concierge. There have been no arrests. Enquiries continue.â confirming the incident.
Additionally, the player has denied all charges against him, and the club has declined to provide comments on the matter, citing the ongoing investigation.
Premier League’s plans to fight racism
The Premier League is one of the most-followed sporting leagues, boasting a massive viewership and a global fanbase. Some of the world’s biggest clubs and players compete in the league. Recently, the introduction of a football governance bill aims to prevent Premier League clubs from joining any potential breakaway Super League.
Similarly, the league has introduced campaigns such as âNo Room for Racismâ in its efforts to address racial discrimination and promote equality, diversity, and inclusion in the sport. The surge in online abuse and discrimination against specific communities and groups of people has further fueled the league’s commitment to combat such issues.
Under this initiative, the Premier League collaborates with various associations and bodies, including the FA, EFL, League Managers Association, and Professional Footballersâ Association. Additionally, it partners with notable NGOs such as Kick It Out, Stonewall, the Football Supportersâ Association, and Level Playing Field.
