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Udinese have announced a lifetime ban for the fan found to have racially abused AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan during their Serie A fixture on January 21, Sunday. Udinese’s rival goalkeeper was racially abused in the first half of the game to which Maignan responded by walking off the field. The incident prompted the match to be halted for a few minutes, as the entire AC Milan team walked off. Maignan had said that the home fans passed racial remarks on him quite a few times.
Udinese give lifetime ban to fan for abusing Maignan
The Italian club identified the individual who passed racial remarks on the 28-year-old goalkeeper, that compelled him to walk off the field midway. The club released a statement and said, "Udinese Calcio has identified the first individual responsible for discriminatory behaviour towards AC Milan player Mike Maignan. This person will face a lifetime ban from attending any Udinese Calcio matches. This ban is effective immediately.”
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The statement further read, “We believe that such strong measures are necessary to send a clear message that racism has no place in football or society. Udinese Calcio stands firmly against any form of discrimination, and we are determined to create an inclusive and respectful environment within our football community.”
The club urged fans to raise their voices against racial remarks and said, "We want to ensure that our stadium remains a space where everyone, regardless of their ethnicity, background, culture, and language is able to enjoy the beautiful game without fear of discrimination. Udinese Calcio calls on all football stakeholders to unite in the fight against racism and discrimination, fostering an environment that celebrates diversity and promotes inclusion.”
The club had identified a 46-year-old from near Udine as the one who passed racial remarks on the footballer.
