Both Burnley and Chelsea have denounced the online racist abuse aimed at their players, Hannibal Mejbri and Wesley Fofana, following their 1-1 draw on Saturday.
Fofana received a red card after two yellow cards, the first being for a foul on Mejbri.
Mejbri posted a screenshot of the racist messages he received on Instagram, stating: “It’s 2026 and there are still people like this… Please educate yourself and your children.”
Burnley expressed their “disgust” at the abuse, confirming they had reported the incident to Meta, the parent company of Instagram, as well as the Premier League and the police.
“Everyone at Burnley FC is appalled by the online racist abuse directed at Hannibal after today’s Premier League match,” the club stated.
“There is no place for such behavior in our society, and we condemn it unequivocally.”
“The club maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward any form of discrimination.”
Fofana also shared screenshots of the racist attacks he had received, commenting, “2026, and it’s still the same. Nothing changes. These individuals never face consequences. While major campaigns against racism are created, real action is lacking.”
Chelsea announced they would “collaborate with the appropriate authorities and platforms to identify those responsible and take the strictest measures.”
“Chelsea Football Club is horrified and repulsed by the despicable online racist abuse targeted at Wesley Fofana,” the club declared.
“The racist abuse directed at Wes following today’s Premier League match against Burnley is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.”
“Such behavior contradicts the values of sportsmanship and everything we stand for as a club. There is no room for racism.”
“We stand firmly with Wes and offer him our complete support, as well as all our players who often have to endure such hatred merely for performing their jobs.”