Police have launched multiple investigations after four Premier League players were subjected to racist abuse on social media, in what authorities have described as part of a deeply concerning rise in online discrimination across football, BBC Sport reports.
Hannibal Mejbri (23) and Wesley Fofana (25) were targeted with offensive messages following Burnley’s 1-1 draw with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, while Tolu Arokodare (25) of Wolverhampton Wanderers and Romaine Mundle (22) of Sunderland also received abuse following weekend fixtures. All four incidents have been formally reported, prompting action from the UK Football Policing Unit.
Chief Constable Mark Roberts condemned the abuse in the strongest terms, warning perpetrators that anonymity online would not shield them from consequences. He confirmed specialist officers would work alongside clubs, governing bodies, and digital platforms to identify those responsible and pursue prosecutions where possible.
The incidents underline a troubling trend. Anti-discrimination group Kick It Out reported a sharp increase in cases this season, with online abuse accounting for the largest proportion of complaints. Chief executive Samuel Okafor said social media companies must do more, arguing that platforms possess the technological capability to prevent such behaviour but have yet to fully deploy it.
Meta, which owns Instagram, reiterated its commitment to removing abusive content and assisting police enquiries. However, the persistence of these incidents highlights the scale of the challenge.
For players, the emotional toll remains significant. For football’s authorities, the message is clear: meaningful progress in tackling racism must extend beyond condemnation and into sustained, effective action.
GFN | Finn Entwistle