FIFA calls for Italian FA probe into Pogba racism case

FIFA on Monday called for an investigation into alleged
racist comments made by the front runner in the race for the top
job in Italian football.
The racism row involves Italian FA vice-president Carlo Tavecchio,
who last Friday provoked controversy when discussing Italy’s
overseas players
“Media reports concerning alleged racist comments by one of the
presidential candidates for the Italian FA have alerted FIFA’s Task
Force against racism and discrimination,” world football’s
governing body announced.
“FIFA has written a letter to the Italian FA asking it to take the
appropriate steps to investigate and decide on this matter and
report to FIFA.”
Tevecchio caused controversy in comments he made at his
election launch last Friday.
“…Opti Poba, who previously ate bananas and then suddenly
becomes a first-team player at Lazio,” the 71-year-old said, in
reference to Paul Pogba, the France international who plays for
Juventus.
Tavecchio apologised afterwards but stressed he was not a racist.
“I accept every criticism but not the accusation of racism because
my whole life bears witness to the contrary.”
The Italian FA were reminded that “the fight against racism is a top
priority for FIFA” and that they were obliged to do everything
possible to stamp out racism.
“In its correspondence, FIFA also stressed that officials of the
football community are expected to act as role models in the fight
against racism,” the statement on FIFA’s official website
concluded.
The overseas contingent in Serie A has become topical since Italy
crashed out of the World Cup in the first round.
This is by no means the first time Italian football has become
embroiled in racism.
In May, Serie A side Atalanta were fined by FIFA after bananas
were thrown at AC Milan defender Kevin Constant.
After the World Cup Mario Balotelli hit out at what he termed his
“racist” detractors after being blamed for the Azzurri’s premature
exit.