Russia asked why it banned player for reaction to racism
| Publisher | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty |
| Publication Date | 23 July 2015 |
| Cite as | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Russia asked why it banned player for reaction to racism, 23 July 2015, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/55ee95f513.html [accessed 19 May 2023] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
July 23, 2015
FIFA is asking the Russian Football Union (RFU) to explain why it has sanctioned a Ghanaian footballer for his reaction to fan racism and not the alleged abusers' team.
FIFA sustainability head Federico Addiechi told a FIFA press conference in St. Petersburg on July 23 that the Russians have been given until July 28 to respond to the governing body's disciplinary department.
During the July 17 opening match of the Russian Premier League, Spartak Moscow fans could be heard racially taunting FC Ufa midfielder Emmanuel Frimpong.
Frimpong, who reacted with a finger gesture to the fans, later apologized but was banned for two games, with the RFU saying it had found no evidence of racism.
It was the latest racism incident to blight Russian football ahead of the 2018 World Cup, which Russia will host.
Based on reporting by AP and AFP
Link to original story on RFE/RL website
