Police Investigate Racist Abuse of Premier League Players
Police investigate abuse directed at players, including Chelsea's Wesley Fofana, Burnley's Hannibal Mejbri, Wolves Tolu Arokodare, and Sunderland's Romaine Mundle.
“Action must follow. Players cannot be expected to tolerate this behaviour, and nor should anyone else...”
Police are looking into racist abuse directed at four Premier League players online after last weekend's matches. The abuse is described as “abhorrent” and targeted Wolves' Tolu Arokodare and Sunderland's Romaine Mundle on Sunday, as well as Chelsea's Wesley Fofana and Burnley's Hannibal Mejbri on Saturday after Burnley's draw.
The incidents are being treated seriously, with investigations underway to identify those responsible. This latest wave of abuse highlights ongoing issues with online racism in football, with players from diverse backgrounds often targeted.
“The UKFPU condemns this abhorrent behaviour and we will ensure that, through our dedicated team of officers, we do everything possible to identify those responsible and bring them to justice.”
Tolu Arokodare was targeted with racist abuse after missing a penalty in Wolves' 1-0 loss to Crystal Palace. The striker received vile messages on social media, a stark reminder of the ugly side of football fandom.
Sunderland's Romaine Mundle also faced similar abuse after his substitute appearance in the 3-1 loss at Fulham. The club hasn't taken it lightly, and the incidents are being investigated by authorities.
Kick It Out, a charity fighting racism in football, slammed the abuse as “appalling” and part of a “sickening a trend.” They're supporting the players and calling for action against online hate.
“But the sad fact is, we know it happens regularly,” the statement also said, adding: “Action must follow. Players cannot be expected to tolerate this behaviour, and nor should anyone else.”
The Premier League is warning those responsible for the racist abuse that they've seen targeting players, including Tolu Arokodare and Romaine Mundle, that there will be “serious consequences” if found guilty. “Football is for everyone - there is no room for racism,” the league stated, emphasizing their stance on the issue.
Wesley Fofana, who's no stranger to online abuse, seems skeptical about meaningful change. Sharing images of racist messages on his Instagram, he posted, “2026, it's still the same thing, nothing changes,” implying that perpetrators often escape punishment. “These people are never punished,” he added, highlighting his frustration.
“You create big campaigns against racism, but nobody actually does anything.”
Nigel Dewale is facing sentencing on March 25th for sending online abuse to England defender Jess Carter during last year's Women's Euros. He pleaded guilty to malicious communication charges in January.
Chelsea, Wolves, Burnley and Sunderland all having to condemn racist abuse towards their players on social media on the same weekend. Deeply depressing. And nothing seems to change.
— Daniel Storey (@danielstorey85) February 22, 2026
Meanwhile, UEFA is investigating allegations that Real Madrid's Vinicius Junior was racially abused by Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni during a Champions League match in Lisbon. Prestianni denies the allegations, claiming Vinicius misunderstood what was said. If found guilty, Prestianni could face a minimum 10-match suspension.
Gianluca Prestianni, the Argentine winger, has denied allegations of racially abusing Vinicius Junior during the Champions League match against Real Madrid. Prestianni claimed Vinicius misunderstood what he heard, stating, “I want to clarify that at no point did I direct racist insults to Vini Jr, who regrettably misunderstood what he thought he heard.”
We stand with Tolu Arokodare after our striker received disgusting racial abuse on social media.https://t.co/thrYmElLVu
— Wolves (@Wolves) February 22, 2026
Benfica has launched an investigation into two fans who were filmed making monkey gestures towards Vinicius Junior. The Portuguese club has identified the fans and may expel them if found guilty. This incident adds to the controversy surrounding Prestianni's alleged racial abuse, which has sparked outrage and calls for action from UEFA and football authorities.
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