Football Federation Cracks Down on Racism: Player Faces 10-Match Ban
In a strong stance against racism, the governing body of football has handed a 10-match suspension to Marco Curto, a defender on loan from Como to Cesena, for racially abusing South Korean forward Hwang Hee-Chan during a pre-season friendly against Wolverhampton Wanderers in July. The punishment is divided into two parts, with half to be served immediately and the remaining half suspended for two years.
Curto’s actions sparked outrage among Hwang’s teammates, leading to the dismissal of winger Daniel Podence for punching a Como player. Wolverhampton Wanderers has welcomed the decision, stating that it sends a clear message that racism will not be tolerated in football or society. The club’s director of football, Matt Wild, emphasized that Wolves will always stand firmly against racism and discrimination in any form.
The incident occurred in the Spanish resort of Marbella, where Curto allegedly referred to Hwang as “Jackie Chan,” a claim that Como representatives disputed, stating that the player did not intend to be derogatory. However, FIFA has taken a firm stance, ordering Curto to perform community service and undergo training and education with an approved organization.
This decision comes on the heels of FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s global stand against racism, launched at the FIFA Congress in Bangkok in May. The governing body has pledged to take five areas of action, including mandatory sanctions for incidents of racism in or around matches. Infantino emphasized that racism is a scourge that exists in society and football, and it’s time to stand up and fight against it.
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