Wolves denounce ‘appalling, illegal’ mistreatment of Tolu Arokodare
Wolves have reported “abhorrent and unlawful” racist abuse directed at striker Tolu Arokodare, who has become the latest Premier League player to face discriminatory attacks on social media.
Arokodare missed a penalty during Sunday’s 1-0 loss to Crystal Palace and subsequently received racist abuse from multiple accounts, as stated by the club.
This incident follows similar abuse faced by Chelsea defender Wesley Fofana and Burnley’s Hannibal Mejbri, who were targeted online after their teams played to a 1-1 draw on Saturday.
“Wolves are appalled by the numerous instances of racist abuse from various perpetrators aimed at Tolu Arokodare on social media following today’s match against Crystal Palace,” the Midlands club stated.
“Racism has no place in football, online, or anywhere in society. We strongly condemn this abhorrent and unlawful behavior. Tolu has our complete and unwavering support.
“No player should have to endure such hatred simply for performing their duties. We stand firmly with him, and with all footballers who are compelled to face this abuse from anonymous accounts acting with apparent impunity.
“The club has reported the posts to the appropriate platforms and will collaborate with the Premier League and authorities to help identify those responsible and ensure suitable action is taken. We will maintain a zero-tolerance stance against all forms of discrimination.”
Arokodare expressed in an Instagram story: “It’s still unbelievable to me that we are in a time where individuals have so much freedom to express such racism without facing any consequences.
“These individuals should have no place in our sport, and collectively we must take action to penalize everyone who tarnishes the game in this manner, regardless of their identity.”
Europe’s governing body, UEFA, initiated an investigation last week into claims made by Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior, who alleged he was racially abused on the pitch by Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni during a Champions League match in Lisbon. The Argentinian has denied these allegations.
Fofana, who shared screenshots of messages sent to his Instagram account, previously expressed a pessimistic view on the situation.
“2026, it’s still the same issue, nothing changes. These individuals are never held accountable,” he posted.
“You launch major campaigns against racism, but no one actually takes action.”
Mejbri also shared abusive messages he received and wrote on his Instagram story: “It’s 2026 and there are still people like that. Educate yourself and your children, please.”
Chelsea stated: “We stand unequivocally with Wes. He has our full support, as do all our players who are frequently forced to endure this hatred simply for doing their jobs.
“We will collaborate with the relevant authorities and platforms to identify the offenders and take the strongest possible measures.”
Burnley added: “There is no place for this in our society, and we condemn it without reservation.”
Anti-discrimination charity Kick It Out remarked in a statement on Sunday: “Players are taking a stand against discrimination, and we have seen record reports to Kick It Out from across football this season, but we acknowledge the frustration regarding how it continues to persist online.
“Words are significant, but actions carry more weight. Football is uniting to address this issue alongside the UK Football Policing Unit and Ofcom, but social media companies must enhance protections for players and improve accountability when incidents occur.”
