Authorities probe racial harassment directed at four Premier League athletes.
Authorities are looking into online harassment aimed at Premier League footballers that occurred over the weekend, with offenders cautioned: “Anyone who thinks they can conceal their identity behind a screen should reconsider.”
The UK Football Policing Unit (UKFPU) reported receiving four distinct allegations of abuse directed at top-tier players in the past three days.
Wolves forward Tolu Arokodare and Sunderland midfielder Romaine Mundle were the most recent players to face online harassment on Sunday, following similar incidents involving Chelsea’s Wesley Fofana and Burnley’s Hannibal Mejbri on Saturday.
Chief Constable Mark Roberts, who leads the UKFPU, stated on Monday: “There is absolutely no tolerance for racial abuse, whether online or offline, and anyone who thinks they can hide behind their screens should reconsider.”
“The UKFPU denounces this unacceptable conduct, and we will ensure that, through our dedicated team of officers, we do everything possible to identify those accountable and bring them to justice.”
Arokodare missed a penalty during Sunday’s 1-0 loss to Crystal Palace and subsequently received racist messages from multiple accounts.
The Black Cats later disclosed that Mundle had also been subjected to similar attacks following his substitute appearance in the 3-1 defeat to Fulham.
The anti-discrimination organization Kick It Out, which has urged platforms to take stronger action against such issues, released a statement on Sunday evening stating: “We stand in solidarity with Wolves’ Tolu Arokodare and Sunderland’s Romaine Mundle.”
“This has been a distressing weekend after four players reported the racist abuse they have encountered on social media. Unfortunately, we know this occurs frequently.”
“The message from them is clear: action must be taken. Players should not have to endure this behavior, and neither should anyone else.”
The Premier League issued its own statements regarding the recent incidents, pledging to support the investigations by Wolves and Sunderland, committing to “serious consequences” for those found guilty, and reaffirming: “Football is for everyone — there is no place for racism.”
Fofana, who shared screenshots of messages sent to his Instagram account, previously expressed a bleak view on the situation.
“2026, and it’s still the same issue, nothing changes. These individuals are never held accountable,” he posted.
“You launch major campaigns against racism, yet no one takes real action.”
Mejbri had also previously shared the abusive messages he received and wrote on his Instagram story: “It’s 2026 and there are still individuals like that. Educate yourself and your children, please.”
Nigel Dewale, who directed online abuse at England defender Jess Carter during last summer’s Women’s Euro, is scheduled to be sentenced on March 25 after pleading guilty to a charge of malicious communication in January.
Dewale’s arrest and subsequent conviction followed an investigation initiated by the UKFPU last July.
The Prime Minister’s official spokesperson remarked: “The racism faced by these footballers is unacceptable. The Prime Minister has previously supported players who have bravely come forward to address discrimination and racism, and this situation is no different.”
“Premier League clubs have expressed their desire to collaborate with social media platforms, including Meta, the Premier League, and the police to identify those responsible.”
“Meta has stated that it will continue its efforts to protect individuals from abuse. Ministers will hold them accountable to ensure this occurs.”
