Investigations have opened over allegations that Inter Milan striker Romelu Lukaku received racist abuse when his side faced Napoli at the San Siro.
Lukaku started the game after returning from a lengthy lay-off that forced him to miss a chunk of the season.
The Belgian returned with an impressive cameo, creating one big chance for his side as they won 1-0. He linked up well with goalscorer Edin Dzeko before coming off.
However, the game was marred by reported racist abuse from a section of the Partenopei fans.
Sports judge Gerardo Mastrandrea has requested further information from the Federal Prosecutor’s Office regarding the incident.
A statement reads (via FCInter1908): “The Sports Judge, having read the report of the collaborators of the federal prosecutor’s office, deems it necessary for the same federal prosecutor’s office to specify, after further consultation if necessary, with those responsible for public order, as to whether the supporters of the Napoli club positioned in the ‘Terza anello blu’ sector, made chants of racial discrimination against Romelu Lukaku of Inter.”
This case is the second incidence of players receiving racist abuse following the return of top-flight football in Italy.
Lecce players Samuel Umtiti and Lameck Banda received racial insults from Lazio during their clash yesterday. The referee stopped the game multiple times and had to speak through the sound system to get fans to stop.
However, Umtiti asked for the game to continue, and his side got the win over Lazio. He left the pitch in tears at the final whistle.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino posted a message of support for the former Barcelona defender and Zambian attacker. The 52-year-old called on fans to silence racists once and for all.
Lazio have received a partial stadium closure ahead of their Serie A game on Sunday. They must close part of the Stadio Olimpico for the next match against Empoli.
They will close the northern end of the ground, which houses the club’s famously racist ultras.
