FIFA President Gianni Infantino has strongly condemned the racist abuse suffered by Bournemouth striker Antoine Semenyo during the Premier League opener at Anfield. He promised close monitoring and stronger deterrents against racism in football.
“It is absolutely unacceptable to see the racist abuse aimed at AFC Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo which led to a stoppage of their Premier League match against Liverpool FC at Anfield,” Infantino said in a statement. “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 added that FIFA’s Players’ Voice Panel, created as part of the body’s five-pillar strategy against racism, will remain in contact with Semenyo and closely monitor the case: “We are committed to ensuring that players are respected and protected, and that competition organisers and law enforcement authorities take appropriate action.”
Antoine Semenyo : “the entire football family stood together.”
nfantino’s comments follow widespread support for the Ghana international, who was racially abused during Friday’s match at Anfield. The game was briefly halted in the 29th minute after Semenyo reported the incident to the referee.
Merseyside Police confirmed that a 47-year-old man from Liverpool was removed from the stadium and later arrested on suspicion of a racially aggravated public order offence. He remains in custody for questioning.
The match resumed four minutes later, and Semenyo responded in remarkable fashion, scoring twice in Bournemouth’s 4-2 defeat to Liverpool.
Bournemouth captain Adam Smith praised his teammate’s resilience, telling Sky Sports: “It shows what kind of man he is to report it to the ref and carry on. The Liverpool players were very supportive to Ant and the rest of the team.”
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Semenyo thanked both sets of players, supporters, and officials for their solidarity: “Last night at Anfield will stay with me forever – not because of one person’s words, but because of how the entire football family stood together.”
The Premier League has announced it will open an investigation into the incident. The Football Association also pledged to work with match officials, the clubs, and authorities to ensure appropriate action is taken. Anti-discrimination body Kick It Out added: “We stand in solidarity with Antoine and can’t praise him enough for his courage in calling this out after such a distressing episode before going on to score twice.”
The Ghana Football Association expressed pride in its Black Stars forward, stating: “In the face of provocation, Antoine showed strength, grace, and unity. On the pitch, he scored twice; off it, he reminded us of what football truly represents — respect, solidarity, and love for the beautiful game. We are proud of you, Antoine. We stand with you.”
