Udinese has released a statement condemning ‘shameful racist insults’ targeted at Keinan Davis by an opponent during their Serie A match against Cagliari. Nicolò Zaniolo has also publicly condemned the incident.
Tensions ran high in the closing moments of the game played in Sardinia. The official statement from Udinese aims to clarify the events surrounding two separate incidents.
Udinese Accuses Cagliari Player of Racist Abuse
The club’s official statement reads: “Udinese Calcio expresses utmost solidarity and full support for Keinan Davis, who was subjected to shameful racist insults by a player of the opposition team in today’s match. The Club reaffirms its strong condemnation for similar deplorable acts that gravely damage the image and values of the sport that we love. Udinese Calcio will defend Keinan in every way and hope for a rapid definition of what happened from the sporting justice system, in which we have full faith.”
While the player in question is not named, all indications suggest it was Cagliari defender Alberto Dossena. This was corroborated by Cagliari coach Fabio Pisacane, who stated that he inquired with Dossena about any racist remarks and was assured of his innocence.
Udinese player Zaniolo also expressed his anger on social media, without explicitly naming the alleged perpetrator. He wrote on Instagram Stories: “The colleague (if you can call him that) who today dared to insult my children and insult my teammate purely for the colour of his skin, ought to be ashamed of himself and never again set foot on a football pitch.”
English Translation:
Udinese has issued a statement condemning “shameful racist insults” directed at Keinan Davis by a Cagliari player during a Serie A match. Nicolò Zaniolo also spoke out against the incident.
The final stages of the match at the Unipol Domus in Sardinia were marked by heightened tension. The club’s formal statement seems to address any confusion surrounding the two incidents.
Udinese Alleges Racist Abuse from Cagliari Player
“Udinese Calcio expresses its deepest solidarity and complete support for Keinan Davis, who was subjected to disgraceful racist insults by an opposing player during today’s game,” the club’s announcement stated. “The Club reiterates its firm condemnation of such reprehensible actions, which severely tarnish the reputation and principles of the sport we cherish. Udinese Calcio will stand by Keinan in every respect and trusts in the swift resolution of this matter by the sporting justice system, in which we have unwavering faith.”
Although the player is not identified, all signs point to Cagliari defender Alberto Dossena. Cagliari coach Fabio Pisacane confirmed this, stating that he specifically asked Dossena if he had made any racist comments and received assurances that he would “never do such a thing.”
Udinese player Zaniolo also expressed his strong disapproval on social media that evening, opting not to name names. He wrote on Instagram Stories: “The colleague (if you can even call him that) who today had the audacity to insult my children and my teammate solely based on his skin color should be deeply ashamed and never be allowed on a football pitch again.”