U.S. Soccer says they are “deeply disturbed” after several USMNT players were subjected to racist comments online following the defeat to Panama at Copa America.
The U.S. fell to a shock 2-1 loss at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, leaving their hopes of progressing to the tournament’s quarterfinals in doubt.
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Timothy Weah was sent off early before Folarin Balogun put the U.S. ahead. Cesar Blackman equalised before Jose Fajardo stunned the tournament hosts with a winner seven minutes from time.
The United States Soccer Federation (USSF) did not name the players in their post-game statement but goalscorer Balogun and defender Chris Richards publicly shared instances of racist abuse they had received on social media.
A USSF statement read: “U.S. Soccer is aware of and deeply disturbed by the racist comments made online and directed at several of our men’s national team players following tonight’s match.
U.S. Soccer stands firmly against racism in all forms and will continue to support our players. pic.twitter.com/QayH6AY7ji
— U.S. Soccer Men's National Team (@USMNT) June 28, 2024
“There is absolutely no place in the game for such hateful and discriminatory behavior. These actions are not only unacceptable but also contrary to the values of respect and inclusivity that we uphold as an organization.
“U.S. Soccer stands firmly against racism in all forms and will continue to support our players.”
Balogun’s club side Monaco expressed their support for the striker in a statement on Friday morning in which they condemned the “racist and insulting comments online” which they said were in “total contradiction with the values of our club and the sporting spirit we defend”.
A week ago, the opening game of Copa America saw Canada Soccer condemn similar abuse of one of their players after defender Moise Bombito revealed racist comments on his social media.
A Major League Soccer statement later read: “Major League Soccer stands against all hate and in support of the U.S. Soccer and Canada Soccer players who received racist messages via social media following recent matches.
“MLS will continue doing all it can to eradicate hate from our game and work with our partners across the global sports ecosystem to accomplish this shared value.
“Hate is a disease that has no place in our sport, in our country, or in the world.”
The U.S. next faces Uruguay in the final game of Group C at Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City on Monday.
GO DEEPER
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(Michael Wade/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)