Police investigating racist abuse of Premier League quartet

Authorities announced on Monday that they are probing the "abhorrent" online racist abuse aimed at four Premier League players during the recent weekend.

Wolverhampton Wanderers forward Tolu Arokodare and Sunderland midfielder Romaine Mundle became the most recent victims on Sunday, while Chelsea defender Wesley Fofana and Burnley midfielder Hannibal Mejbri faced comparable attacks on Saturday after their teams played out a 1-1 draw.

Chief Constable Mark Roberts, leader of the UK Football Policing Unit (UKFPU), stated on Monday: "Racial abuse has no place whatsoever, whether it occurs online or face to face, and those who think they can conceal themselves behind their screens need to reconsider.

"The UKFPU denounces this despicable conduct, and we will utilise our specialised officers to identify the perpetrators and ensure they face justice."

Arokodare failed to convert a penalty during Wolves 1-0 loss at Crystal Palace on Sunday, leading to racist messages from multiple accounts.

Sunderland disclosed that Mundle experienced identical harassment after coming on as a substitute in their 3-1 defeat against Fulham.

The UK charity Kick It Out, which works to eradicate racism in football, released a statement on Sunday evening denouncing a "dreadful weekend" of such incidents.

"Yet the unfortunate reality is that this occurs frequently," the statement continued, emphasising: "Strong measures must be taken. No player should have to endure this, and it is unacceptable for anyone."

The Premier League released its own condemnation, cautioning of "severe repercussions" for offenders, and affirming: "Football belongs to all, with zero tolerance for racism."

However, French player Fofana, who has previously publicised abusive messages on his Instagram, expressed doubt about meaningful progress.

"Even in 2026, the situation remains unchanged, nothing improves," he wrote. Those individuals are never held accountable.

"You run major anti-racism initiatives, yet no one takes real steps."

Nigel Dewale, who targeted England defender Jess Carter with online abuse during last years Womens Euros, faces sentencing on 25 March after admitting to malicious communication in January.

UEFA, the European football authority, initiated an inquiry last week into allegations from Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior that he suffered racial abuse from Benfica player Gianluca Prestianni during a Champions League match in Lisbon.

The Argentine player has rejected the claims.

Benfica has also started its own investigation into two supporters caught on camera making apparent monkey gestures towards the Brazilian striker Vinicius.