According to CNN World Sport, FIFA president Sepp Blatter has claimed that there is no racism in football.
This news comes with pending investigations into alleged claims of racism against Chelsea’s John Terry and Liverpool’s Luis Suarez.
What tremendous timing on Blatter’s part.
“I would deny it. There is no racism, there is maybe one of the players towards another, he has a word or a gesture which is not the correct one,” said Blatter.
“But also the one who is affected by that, he should say that this is a game. We are in a game, and at the end of the game, we shake hands, and this can happen, because we have worked so hard against racism and discrimination.
“I think the whole world is aware of the efforts we are making against racism and discrimination. And on the field of play sometimes you say something that is not very correct, but then at the end of the game, the game is over and you have the next game, in which you can behave better.”
Mr. Blatter, I think you have spoken too soon.
Just after the FIFA president made these claims, breaking news from Goal.com suggested that Suarez will be charged by the English FA for his actions against Manchester United left-back Patrice Evra.
Mr. Blatter, I know you have spoken too soon.
The FA released the following statement:
“It is alleged that Suarez used abusive and/or insulting words and/or behaviour towards Manchester United’s Patrice Evra contrary to FA rules.
“It is further alleged that this included a reference to the ethnic origin and/or colour and/or race of Patrice Evra.”
It doesn’t look good for Liverpool FC or Luis Suarez at the moment, but Sepp Blatter may just be the biggest loser in this case. Nothing out of the ordinary at all.
In response to the charges, Liverpool FC released their own official statement on the club’s website.
“We will discuss the matter fully with him when he returns from international duty, but he will plead not guilty to the charge and we expect him to request a personal hearing.
“Luis remains determined to clear his name of the allegation made against him by Patrice Evra. The Club remain fully supportive of Luis in this matter.”
How will Blatter recover from yet another scandal-type incident?
Not sure, but his colleagues will surely advise him to stay quiet until he’s got more information on the issue on hand.
Until then, it’s all hands on deck for Mr. Blatter, Suarez and Liverpool FC.
Next up, John Terry.
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