Police are investigating what they described as “abhorrent” racist abuse directed online at four Premier League footballers over the weekend.
Tolu Arokodare and Romaine Mundle were targeted on Sunday. A day earlier, Wesley Fofana and Hannibal Mejbri received similar abuse following a 1-1 draw between their clubs.
Police and League Response
Chief Constable Mark Roberts, head of the UK Football Policing Unit, said officers were working to identify those responsible.
“There is absolutely no place for racial abuse, either online or in person, and anyone who believes they can hide behind their keyboards should think again,” he said.
The UK Football Policing Unit condemned the behaviour and pledged to bring offenders to justice.
The Premier League warned of “serious consequences” for those found guilty, stating:
“Football is for everyone, there is no room for racism.”
Player and Charity Reactions
Arokodare received racist messages after missing a penalty in Wolves’ 1-0 defeat at Crystal Palace. Sunderland confirmed Mundle endured similar attacks after appearing as a substitute in a 3-1 loss at Fulham.
Kick It Out described it as an “appalling weekend,” insisting that action must follow.
Fofana, who shared screenshots of abusive messages, expressed frustration, writing,
“2026, it’s still the same thing, nothing changes. You create big campaigns against racism, but nobody actually does anything.”
Wider Scrutiny on Racism in Football
The incidents come amid broader scrutiny of racism in football. Nigel Dewale, who admitted sending abusive messages to England defender Jess Carter during last year’s Women’s Euros, is due to be sentenced on March 25 after pleading guilty to malicious communication.
UEFA is also investigating Vinicius Junior’s allegations of racist abuse during the Champions League match against Benfica, underscoring growing concerns about discrimination in the sport.
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