Roc Nation Sports calls for apology, action following racist abuse aimed at Lukaku

Representatives of Romelu Lukaku have demanded an apology from Juventus and are urging Italian authorities to take action following what they describe as “despicable” racist abuse directed towards their client.

The Inter forward scored a late penalty to secure a 1-1 draw in the first leg of the Coppa Italia semi-final against Juventus, but was subsequently given a second yellow card for his celebration, which involved a “shushing” gesture to the Juve fans, resulting in a scuffle between the teams.

Roc Nation Sports International, Lukaku’s agency, alleges that the player was subjected to racial abuse from sections of the home crowd in Turin.

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In a statement shared on Twitter, Roc Nation Sports International president Michael Yormark wrote: “The racist remarks made towards Romelu Lukaku by Juventus fans in Turin were beyond despicable and cannot be accepted.

“Romelu scored a penalty in the game. Before, during, and after the penalty, he was subjected to hostile and disgusting racist abuse.

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“Romelu celebrated in the same manner he has previously celebrated goals. The referee’s response was to award a yellow card to Romelu.

“Romelu deserves an apology from Juventus, and I expect the league to condemn the behaviour of this group of Juventus supporters immediately.

“The Italian authorities must use this opportunity to tackle racism, rather than punish the victim of the abuse. I am certain that the footballing world shares the same sentiment.“