Kerry FC have released a statement condemning online racist abuse targeted at members of their squad during their 1-0 defeat to Athlone Town in Mounthawk Park last night.
Just a day after the FAI launched an inquiry into vile and horrific racist abuse aimed at players from the Men’s Under 15 international squad on multiple social media outlets, where they are now currently liaising with the Gardai, the social media companies, the families of the players and their clubs.
Kerry FC have now had to contact the FAI this morning after racist abuse was directed at their players on social media platforms during their First Division clash with Athlone at the Tralee Venue.
The game played in awful weather conditions came to life late on as Valerii Dolia’s late winner gifted the away side all three points, however the result is overshadowed by the actions of individuals who targeted Kerry players with vile acts of racism online.
In a statement released by the Kerry FC club this morning, it read:
“Kerry FC is shocked, disappointed and angry at racist abuse of our players on social media during our game against Athlone Town last night
Kerry FC is working with the FAI and League of Ireland to Kick it Out of our game.
Kerry FC condemns discrimination in football and will not tolerate any form of hate towards any of our players or staff.
Mounthawk Park and Kerry FC is a community where all people are welcome regardless of race, ethnicity, and other diverse backgrounds.”
Diarmuid Kearney
Diarmuid Kearney is a freelance Sports Journalist based in Co Kerry. He has more than 5 years experience covering domestic and international soccer for different media organisations, while also working for local and national print and digital organisations covering GAA.