Thursday, January 17, 2013

Kevin-Prince Boateng invited to United Nations anti-racism event

AC Milan's Kevin-Prince Boateng has been invited to the United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination in March.

Boateng, 25, walked off the pitch during a match at lower division side Pro Patria on 3 January after being racially abused by home fans.

The Ghanaian midfielder's team-mates followed and the match was abandoned.

Milan said: "The event will take place at the National Building in Geneva and will concentrate on racism in sport."

The former Portsmouth and Tottenham player has been widely praised for his actions, with the likes of Rio Ferdinand, Vincent Kompany and Nigel de Jong voicing support.

On Tuesday, Serie A's disciplinary commissioner said no action would be taken against Boateng or the club.

"In footballing terms, no team can abandon a game out of their own choice, it must be down to the referee who makes this decision or public authorities," Serie A sporting judge Giampaolo Tosel said.

"However, if a player is being racially insulted and his team-mates show solidarity by supporting their team-mate, the essential value of sports and civility mean the club cannot be penalised. For this reason, the judge will not issue any punishment to Milan."

But Boateng's actions were not universally welcomed, with Fifa president Sepp Blatter warning that "running away" from racism is not the answer.

From: BBC Sports

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