FIFA President Infantino reacts to racist attacks on Ghana’s Antoine Semenyo

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has strongly condemned the racist abuse directed at Bournemouth striker Antoine Semenyo during his side’s Premier League opener against Liverpool.

The Ghanaian forward was subjected to a racist slur in the first half at Anfield on Friday. Semenyo immediately reported the incident to referee Anthony Taylor, who halted the game in the 28th minute and spoke with Liverpool’s Arne Slot and Bournemouth’s Andoni Iraola. The supporter responsible was swiftly removed from the stadium by police.

Infantino described the abuse as “absolutely unacceptable,” adding that there is no place for racism or discrimination in football. He praised Semenyo’s resilience, saying:
“Antoine’s courage and performance on the pitch, despite such adversity, is a powerful example of strength and dignity for players worldwide.”

FIFA has assured Semenyo of its full support, with Infantino confirming that the organisation’s Players’ Voice Panel, part of its five-pillar strategy against racism introduced in 2024 – will be in direct contact with him.

“We are committed to ensuring that players are respected and protected, and that competition organisers and law enforcement authorities take appropriate action,” he said.

He further stressed: “Everyone at FIFA, the Players’ Voice Panel and the entire football community stands firmly with Antoine. We will continue to support him, Bournemouth, the Premier League and The FA to ensure strong deterrents are in place and racism is eradicated from our game.”

Despite the ugly episode, Semenyo responded in the best way possible on the pitch, scoring twice to bring Bournemouth level at 2-2 before late goals from Federico Chiesa and Mohamed Salah sealed a 4-2 win for Liverpool.