January 22 – Udinese have been ordered by Serie A to play one game behind closed doors following the racist abuse aimed at AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan on Saturday.
Milan’s players walked off the pitch after the chanting, with play being suspended for about 10 minutes.
A man suspected of shouting racist abuse at Maignan has been banned from every Italian stadium for five years.
Maignan, 28, was born in French Guiana but grew up in Paris and plays for the French national team.
He was seen remonstrating with referee Fabio Maresca before removing his gloves and walking off, his teammates following as he went down the tunnel.
“We believe that such strong measures are necessary to send a clear message that racism has no place in football or society,” Udinese said in a statement after issuing a lifetime ban to the perpetrator.
“Udinese Calcio stands firmly against any form of discrimination, and we are determined to create an inclusive and respectful environment within our football community.”
Following the incident FIFA president Gianni Infantino said the incident, along with a similar case at Sheffield Wednesday at the weekend, was “totally abhorrent” and called for the implementation of an automatic forfeit of games for teams whose fans commit racist abuse.
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