After he was subjected to racist abuse online, the city of Crotone have given striker Nwankwo Simy’s son honorary citizenship.
The Nigeria international was the second Crotone player to receive the abuse after his Algerian teammate Adam Ounas.
Among the vicious insults against Simy was one hoping his baby son ‘would die of pancreatic cancer.’
After he was subjected to racist abuse online, the city of Crotone have given striker Nwankwo Simy’s son honorary citizenship.
The Nigeria international was the second Crotone player to receive the abuse after his Algerian teammate Adam Ounas.
Among the vicious insults against Simy was one hoping his baby son ‘would die of pancreatic cancer.’
As a response, the Mayor of Crotone Vincenzo Voce has given Simy’s son honorary citizenship of the city.
“Crotone loves you and gives a symbolic embrace,” declared the Mayor.
“We are close to you and thank you, because by publicly denouncing this unacceptable incident, you set a very important example: we have to call people out, because only by realising the gravity of these acts can we combat intolerance, verbal and physical violence, and racism.
“The entire community of Crotone embraces you and your son. He will grow up with real values, because he has a great Daddy by his side.”
Simy received the certificate and thanked the locals for their support.
“I feel that I am from Crotone, as I’ve been here for five years and feel the warmth of the people, so I thank everyone.
“I wanted to call out what happened because we players must set the example. Many kids watch us and it’s important to send the right message.”
Under Italian law, being born in Italy does not automatically guarantee Italian citizenship, whereas having a distant blood relative from Italy does allow for a passport.