The U.S. soccer federation condemned the online racist abuse of their players on Thursday after their 2-1 defeat by Panama at the Copa America.
"There is absolutely no place in the game for such hateful and discriminatory behaviour," U.S. Soccer said in a statement.
"These actions are not only unacceptable but also contrary to the values of respect and inclusivity that we uphold as an organization."
USMNT players face racist abuse online
Folarin Balogun shares on IG some of the racist DMs he’s received following the USMNT loss to Panama.
Disgusting. pic.twitter.com/F1U7RKnJEe— USMNT Only (@usmntonly) June 28, 2024
U.S. Soccer stands firmly against racism in all forms and will continue to support our players. pic.twitter.com/QayH6AY7ji
— U.S. Soccer Men's National Team (@USMNT) June 28, 2024
Statement. pic.twitter.com/eOtpeekoqB
— CONMEBOL Copa América™️ ENG (@copaamerica_ENG) June 28, 2024
Tim Weah, who is Black, was one of the players targeted by the abuse. The U.S. forward was shown a straight red card in the 18th minute for punching a Panama player in the back of the head in an off-the-ball incident.
Tim Weah receives a red card after review for this contact pic.twitter.com/phw8bSzdKR
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) June 27, 2024
The U.S. took the lead despite the red card but were pegged back four minutes later before Panama sealed the win with a goal in the 83rd minute.
Weah said he had let his team and his country down.
"A moment of frustration led to an irreversible consequence, and for that, I am deeply sorry to my team mates, coaches, family and our fans," he added.
(Reporting by Simon Jennings in Bengaluru; Editing by Peter Rutherford)
