Premier League Launches Full Investigation into Racist Abuse of Semenyo

Semenyo

 Premier League Launches Full Investigation into Racist Abuse of Semenyo

The Premier League announced that it will conduct a full investigation after Liverpool’s opening match against Bournemouth at Anfield was temporarily halted when Antoine Semenyo reported being subjected to racist abuse from a spectator.

Referee Anthony Taylor stopped the game in the 29th minute and spoke with managers Arne Slot (Liverpool) and Andoni Iraola (Bournemouth) before calling team captains Virgil van Dijk and Adam Smith to the sidelines.

According to PA Media, police officers visited the referee’s room during halftime, and an anti-discrimination message was read out to the Anfield crowd.

In a statement, the Premier League said:

> “Today’s match between Liverpool and Bournemouth was temporarily suspended in the first half following a report of discriminatory abuse from the stands, directed at Bournemouth player Antoine Semenyo.”

The statement continued:

> “This aligns with the Premier League’s anti-discrimination protocols inside stadiums.”

The League further emphasized:

> “A full investigation into the incident at Anfield is now underway. We offer our complete support to the player and both clubs. Racism has no place in our sport or in society. We will continue to work with stakeholders and authorities to ensure our stadiums remain inclusive and welcoming environments for all.”

Semenyo himself shared a racist message he received on Instagram, captioned with the words “When will this stop?”

Meta, the parent company of Instagram, has confirmed it is investigating the issue and will take action against abusive comments and accounts.

Merseyside Police stated that a 47-year-old man was removed from the stadium and that an investigation is ongoing following verification of the incident.