FIFA president Gianni Infantino shared his support for Lecce duo Samuel Umtiti and Lameck Banda after they were racially abused by a group of Lazio fans.
A section of the Biancocelesti supporters present at the Via del Mare for yesterday’s Serie A clash between the two sides reportedly shouted racist abuse toward Umtiti and Banda, leaving the former in tears. Lecce managed to take revenge on the pitch, picking up all three points in a 2-1 win.
Infantino commented on the incident on his Instagram page after the match, sharing his support for the Lecce duo.
“Solidarity with Samuel Umtiti and Lameck Banda – let’s shout it loud and clear: NO TO RACISM!
“May the huge majority of fans, who are good people, stand up to shut up all the racists once and for all!”
The 2018 World Cup winner responded on his own Instagram story, commenting: “Football is pleasure and joy, the rest counts for nothing.”
It is likely that the incident will be investigated by Lega Serie A, who have been working to prove their commitment to diversity in sport in recent years.
Lazio have a history of controversial stadium behaviour and many of their fans will be frustrated to see the behaviour of a section of their support.
When is it time for Serie A to throw out Lazio! This has been going on for decades with their fans!
Today, I feel Umiti. Today, I feel Banda.
Solidarity nonsense. When would action be taken against this menace.
Shocking…racists at Lazio. Fish rots from the head down.