CAF condemns acts of racism directed at Brazilian striker

CAF has condemned the acts of racism directed at Brazil’s star forward Richarlison. 

The incident took place during the international friendly match between Tunisia and the South American side in Paris this week.

“CAF stands in solidarity with Richarlison against this inhuman act,” read the statement. 

Tottenham Hotspur frontman was subject to racial abuse after a banana was thrown at him during the friendly clash. Objects were thrown at the ex-Everton man and his teammates when celebrating scoring Brazil’s second goal in their 5-1 win over Tunisia. 

After the game, Richarlison tweeted that racism will continue “every day and everywhere” if no action is taken – in a cryptic stab at football authorities FIFA.

The Brazilian Football Federation (CBF) also issued out a statement on the Richarlison incident via Twitter,  “reinforcing their position against discrimination and strongly repudiated any episode of racism in football.” 

SADDENED

Meanwhile, Thiago Silva added that: “I was saddened by the gesture they made, throwing the banana at Richarlison which, frankly, leaves me very saddened because that’s not football.” 

“Football is about supporting your team. On the pitch, we try to give our all for our national team. But gestures like this are not good for football.”

Harry Kane also echoed his clubmate’s view in an interview with ESPN Brasil.

“It was very disappointing to see,” Kane said. “I haven’t seen [Richarlison] and had a chance to talk about the racism that he suffered against Tunisia.I think FIFA have said they are going to investigate and find out what happened, but normally, that kind of thing is unacceptable.

“I think we’re doing all and much as we can do as players to kick out [racism] as much as possible. I hope FIFA can be strong and find out who done it, making sure the right consequences are made.”

Brazil had posed for photographs with an anti-racism banner before the match that read: “Without our black players, we wouldn’t have stars on our shirts.”