The ugly face of racism in football has reared it`s unwanted head again. During the game between Chelsea and Roma on Wednesday evening Antonio Rudiger was allegedly, subject to racist abuse from the Roma supporters. The Italian side have subsequently been charged by UEFA, their website cites the charge,
`Disciplinary proceedings have been opened following the UEFA Champions League group stage match between Chelsea FC and AS Roma (3-3), played on 18 October in England.
Charges against AS Roma: – Racist behaviour (monkey chants) – Art. 14 of the Disciplinary Regulations
This case will be dealt with by the UEFA Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body on 16 November.’
Considering this alleged abuse was against one of their former players, makes this whole issue all the more disappointing. Part of the reason Rudiger wanted out of Roma was because he didn`t believe the club had done enough to address the racism that is still part of the game in Italy and other parts of Europe.
In England, so much has been done to remove this vile abuse from the beautiful game, it`s a shame that the lead, can`t be followed elsewhere.
There`s no doubt racism was once prevalent in the English game, but through education and, policing by the authorities it`s been eradicated to a large degree. Supporters play their part too, by shouting down anyone who is daft enough, to start any sort of chant in the stadium.
Unfortunately, there will always be those that are too stupid, whatever their motivation is, to understand that what they are doing is wrong. In the 21st century, though, it would be good to think that in the civilised world we live in, as well as inside a football stadium, we could have cured this scourge on our worldwide society.
With Chelsea due to travel to Rome in just two weeks, it`s disappointing that the case is not going to be discussed until after that game. If UEFA had anything about them, they would discuss and reach a decision in the coming week. The football authorities need to send a strong message to the racists at any football club. Stadium bans for supporters should be the least that happens. Clubs whose supporters continue to abuse, should be hit hard in the pocket until racism is eradicated for good. Or maybe that`s just a Utopian fantasy. Let`s hope not.
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