Inter’s Romelu Lukaku was subjected to “disgusting racist abuse” after his equaliser against Juventus, his Roc Nation representatives have claimed.
The in-form Belgian star converted from 12 yards to level the scores at 1-1 in the 95th minute of Tuesday’s Coppa Italia semi-final.
Before and after Lukaku’s successful penalty, some members of the home crowd were seen to be making racist monkey noises and gestures.
Lukaku gestured to the crowd when celebrating and told the home fans to “shut it”, for which he received a second yellow card and was duly dismissed by the referee.
Romelu Lukaku – President’s Statement
Michael Yormak of Roc Nations Sports International, who represent the forward, deplored his punishment and called on Juventus to issue an apology.
The company’s president wrote in a statement posted on Twitter: “Tonight’s racist remarks made towards Romelu Lukaku by Juventus fans in Turin were beyond despicable and cannot be accepted.
“Romelu scored a penalty late in the game. Before, during, and after the penalty, he was subjected to hostile and disgusting racist abuse.
“Romelu celebrated in the same manner he has previously celebrated goals.
“The referee’s response was to award a yellow card to Romelu. He deserves an apology from Juventus.
“I expect the League to condemn the behaviour of this group of Juventus supporters immediately.
“The Italian authorities must use this opportunity to tackle racism, rather than punish the victim of the abuse.
“I am certain that the footballing world shares the same sentiment”.
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Indeed, a similar celebration had been adopted by Lukaku during his red-hot form over the international break, albeit never aimed directly at the home supporters.
The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) now face a crucial period to tackle an endemic problem in their nation’s sport.
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Tuesday’s match was far from the first time a black player has been racially abused.
Mario Balotelli was one of the first and most vehement recipients.
But recently as January of this year, Lecce’s Samuel Umtiti was also subject to such abuse.