BENGALURU, INDIA: Kerala Blasters FC defender Fallou Ndiaye was allegedly subjected to racial abuse by supporters of Bengaluru FC in their recently held Indian Super League clash at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium in the city on Saturday, April 11.
According to a video circulating on the social media platform X, Ndiaye was asked to ‘go to a zoo’ by supporters of Bengaluru FC after the former came outside the field of play to celebrate with the travelling fans of Kerala Blasters. The Blasters, ranked last in the table, won this game by a 2-1 scoreline.
You can see the video here:
The Blasters have lodged a complaint with the All India Football Federation (AIFF), who have promised an official probe into the incident. Ndiaye was targeted with racial chants in the second half of the encounter, during which the visitors came back from a 0-1 deficit to win it by scoring two goals.
“The complaints have been referred to the Disciplinary Committee, an independent judicial body, for examination as per the AIFF Disciplinary Code,” the AIFF said.
Bengaluru FC aware of a video circulating on social media showing racist remarks directed at a player of Kerala Blasters – Club statement
In the first half, the Blues had taken the lead via an own goal off Ndiaye himself, but the Blasters came back strongly in the second 45 minutes to pick up an improbable away victory. Games between these sides have held an edge since the infamous walk-off orchestrated by former Blasters head coach Ivan Vukomanovic in the semifinals of the 2022-23 ISL playoffs, at the same venue.
On that occasion, referee Crystal John allowed Bengaluru to take a quick free-kick, from which Sunil Chhetri scored, since the Blasters were not ready and were still arguing with the referee. However, the goal stood, and Vukomanovic took the bold decision of asking his team to walk off the pitch. He was later suspended by the AIFF, but hailed as a hero by the club’s supporters.
Both clubs – Kerala Blasters and Bengaluru FC – condemned the latest incident, with the latter promising action.
“Bengaluru FC are aware of a video circulating on social media showing racist remarks directed at a player of Kerala Blasters FC during the recent fixture at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium. We condemn this behaviour in the strongest possible terms. Racism is unacceptable, has no place in our sport, and runs completely counter to the values that this Club stands for,” a statement from Bengaluru FC read.
“We are working with the relevant authorities to identify the individual involved and will take appropriate action. We urge and expect every supporter representing this Club to uphold the highest standards of respect and sportsmanship at all times. Bengaluru FC will continue to stand firmly against racism and discrimination in all its forms,” it added.
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