Authorities are investigating instances of online abuse aimed at Premier League players over the weekend. Offenders have been warned: “Anyone who thinks they can hide behind their keyboards should reconsider.”
The UK Football Policing Unit (UKFPU) reported receiving four separate cases of abuse targeting top-tier players over the past three days.
Wolves forward Tolu Arokodare and Sunderland midfielder Romaine Mundle were the latest targets of online abuse on Sunday, following similar incidents involving Chelsea’s Wesley Fofana and Burnley’s Hannibal Mejbri on Saturday.
Mark Roberts, Chief Constable of the UKFPU, stated on Monday: “Racial abuse has no place, whether online or in person. Anyone who believes they can hide behind their screens should think twice.”
“The UKFPU denounces this despicable behavior, and we will leverage our dedicated team of officers to identify and prosecute those responsible.”
Arokodare received racist messages following a missed penalty in Sunday’s 1-0 loss against Crystal Palace, while Sunderland disclosed that Mundle faced similar attacks after coming off the bench in a 3-1 defeat to Fulham.
The anti-discrimination organization Kick It Out released a statement on Sunday evening expressing solidarity with Arokodare and Mundle, stating: “This weekend has been truly appalling, with four players calling attention to the racist abuse they faced online. Unfortunately, this is a recurring issue.”
“The message from them is clear: action must be taken. Players should not have to tolerate such behavior, nor should anyone else.”
The Premier League also spoke out regarding these recent incidents, pledging support for the investigations by Wolves and Sunderland and affirming that there will be “serious consequences” for those found guilty. The league reiterated its stance that “football is for everyone — there is no room for racism.”
Fofana, who shared screenshots of abusive messages he received on Instagram, expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of anti-racism initiatives. He posted, “In 2026, the situation remains unchanged. These people face no repercussions,” adding, “Although there are extensive campaigns against racism, no real action is taken.”
Mejbri also shared similar abusive messages and commented on his Instagram story: “It’s 2026, and people like this still exist. It’s time to educate yourself and your children.”
Nigel Dewale, who targeted England defender Jess Carter with online abuse during the Women’s Euro last summer, awaits sentencing on March 25 after pleading guilty to malicious communication in January, following a UKFPU investigation initiated last July.
The Prime Minister’s spokesperson commented: “The racism faced by these footballers is unacceptable. The Prime Minister has previously supported athletes who bravely highlight discrimination and racism, and this situation is no different.”
“Premier League clubs are eager to collaborate with social media platforms, including Meta, the Premier League, and law enforcement authorities, to identify those responsible. Meta has indicated its commitment to shielding individuals from abuse, and ministers will hold them accountable to ensure this occurs.”