FIFA President condemns racist abuse targeted as Antoine Semenyo

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has strongly condemned the racist abuse suffered by AFC Bournemouth and Ghana forward Antoine Semenyo during Friday’s Premier League clash against Liverpool at Anfield.

The incident, which forced a temporary stoppage in the match, has sparked outrage across the global football community.

Infantino described the abuse as “absolutely unacceptable,” stressing that racism and any form of discrimination have no place in football. He praised Semenyo’s courage and composure, noting that his resilience in the face of adversity serves as a powerful example for players worldwide.

As part of FIFA’s ongoing fight against racism, Infantino pointed to The Players’ Voice Panel, a mechanism introduced following the adoption of FIFA’s five anti-racism pillars at the 2024 Congress. The panel will remain in close contact with Semenyo and monitor the situation to ensure his rights, safety, and dignity are protected.

“Everyone at FIFA, The Players’ Voice Panel, and the entire football community stands firmly with Antoine,” Infantino said. “We will continue to offer our full support to him, to Bournemouth, the Premier League, and The FA. Strong deterrents must be in place, and meaningful action must follow, to eliminate racism and discrimination from our game.”

Infantino added that symbolic gestures are not enough, stressing the need for accountability from competition organisers, clubs, and law enforcement.

“Football is a global sport built on unity, passion, and respect — values that must be protected if the game is to remain a true force for inclusion and togetherness,” he concluded.

Here is a copy of the full statement by FIFA President Gianni Infantino: