Umtiti Praised for Response Following Racist Incident
January 5, 2023
Wednesday’s game between Lecce and Lazio was briefly halted in the second half as the opposing fans targeted Samuel Umtiti with racist chants. Referee Livio Marinelli considered halting the match altogether, but it continued as the local supporter started shouting the defender’ name
The Barcelona loanee reportedly asked for the play to resume. He was emotional after the game for the show of support. His teammate Lameck Banda, who subbed off at half-time, was the subject of slurs as well.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino took to Instagram to express his solidarity. Lecce president Saverio Sticchi Damiani praised the Lecce faithful.
