Police are investigating racist online abuse targeting four Premier League footballers, with authorities vowing to identify and prosecute the perpetrators.
POLICE are investigating what they described as “abhorrent” racist abuse directed online at four Premier League footballers last weekend.
Wolverhampton Wanderers striker Tolu Arokodare and Sunderland midfielder Romaine Mundle were targeted on Sunday, following similar abuse aimed at Chelsea’s Wesley Fofana and Burnley’s Hannibal Mejbri on Saturday after their clubs’ 1-1 draw.
Chief Constable Mark Roberts, head of the UK Football Policing Unit, condemned the behaviour and promised 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,” Roberts said.
Arokodare received racist messages after missing a penalty in Wolves’ 1-0 defeat at Crystal Palace, while Sunderland confirmed Mundle was also attacked following his substitute appearance in a 3-1 loss at Fulham.
Anti-racism charity Kick It Out issued a statement condemning an “appalling weekend” of abuse, noting that such incidents happen regularly and demanding action.
The Premier League also warned of “serious consequences” for those found guilty, insisting football is for everyone and there is no room for racism.
French defender Fofana, who shared images of the abusive messages sent to his Instagram account, expressed frustration at the lack of progress.
“2026, it’s still the same thing, nothing changes,” he posted, adding, “You create big campaigns against racism, but nobody actually does anything.”
In a related case, Nigel Dewale, who sent online abuse to England defender Jess Carter during last year’s Women’s Euros, is set to be sentenced on March 25 after pleading guilty to malicious communication.
The incidents follow UEFA’s investigation last week into claims by Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior that he was racially abused on the pitch by Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni during a Champions League game, allegations which the Argentinian player has denied.
