The Premier League has launched an investigation into allegations of internal racism by a former diversity and inclusion team member.
Kay Badu joined the organisation in 2022 on a consultancy basis. He raised multiple concerns of internal racial discrimination to senior staff members.
The Premier League has assigned an independent barrister to probe the claims. They have indicated their commitment to addressing and rectifying any issues of racism within their organisation.
A statement sent to the Daily Mail read: “Discrimination and prejudice have no place at the Premier League, or anywhere in football, and it is our priority to promote and protect equality, diversity and inclusion.
“After being made aware of certain recent allegations in the workplace, the Premier League launched an independent investigation into a number of the issues raised.
“This process, which is already underway, is being carried out by an external specialist barrister, whose findings will be provided to the Premier League Board.
“The Premier League takes these matters extremely seriously and the investigation will be completed as soon as practically possible.
“The Premier League continues to make progress as part of the League’s No Room for Racism Action Plan and will act against all forms of discrimination to ensure football is inclusive and welcoming for all.”
News broke in February 2022 that Badu received a six-figure financial settlement from the government over racism allegations during his former role in Whitehall.
At the time, Badu told the press that he had been the target of bullying at the hands of white managers during his employment at the Cabinet Office.
The Premier League must ensure that all its employees feel safe, respected and valued, regardless of ethnicity.
The league’s decision to investigate the allegations made by Badu is a crucial step toward creating a more inclusive and equitable workplace for everyone.
It sends a clear message that any form of discrimination, whether racism or any other kind, will not be tolerated and will be dealt with seriously.
