Rio Ferdinand says it is “disheartening” that racism remains a problem in football after Richarlison had a banana thrown at him in Brazil’s 5-1 friendly win over Tunisia.
The Tottenham striker was celebrating a goal when the incident occurred in Paris.
Former Manchester United defender Ferdinand said authorities must do more to combat racism in the sport. He described it as “another day racism is OK and welcomed in football”.
“I’m not saying football can change or cure racism because I would be an idiot to think that,” Ferdinand said on his Youtube channel.
“But when you’ve got your own kids waking up and saying: ‘Dad, have you seen that banana thrown on the pitch at Richarlison?’ It’s madness.”
Richarlison said on Tuesday that racism will continue “every day and everywhere” unless authorities “punish” the perpetrators.
“Football can play a good part in highlighting issues and standing together to make the authorities and powers that be put things in place to protect people,” Ferdinand added.
“But it ain’t happening. It’s disheartening.”
Credit: bbc.com
