Ebenezer Akinsanmiro, a young Nigerian footballer on loan from Inter Milan to Sampdoria, found himself at the center of a racial abuse incident during a Serie B match against Brescia. The 20-year-old, a product of Remo Stars Academy in Nigeria, was subjected to discriminatory chants from the Brescia home crowd early in the game. This prompted the referee to briefly halt the match and issue a warning over the stadium loudspeaker, emphasizing that continued racist behavior could lead to the game’s abandonment. This incident underscores the persistent issue of racism in football, highlighting the need for stronger measures to combat discrimination and protect players from such abuse.
While the referee’s intervention aimed to address the immediate issue, the incident continued to impact Akinsanmiro’s performance. After Sampdoria took the lead, he reacted to the abuse with a provocative celebration directed towards the Brescia fans, which drew mixed reactions. Some interpreted his actions as a justified response to the racist taunts, while others viewed it as an unnecessary provocation. This incident brings to the fore the complex emotional and psychological toll that racial abuse takes on players, and the difficult choices they face in responding to such situations.
Recognizing the escalating tension and the potential for further conflict, Sampdoria coach Leonardo Semplici opted to substitute Akinsanmiro before halftime. The player left the field to a mixture of applause and boos, reflecting the polarized atmosphere created by the incident. The coach’s decision demonstrates the responsibility teams have to protect their players from further harm and to prioritize their well-being in such circumstances. It also underscores the delicate balance between supporting a player subjected to abuse and managing the potential for further escalation of tensions.
Sampdoria, in a show of solidarity with their player, subsequently posted a picture of Akinsanmiro on social media with the caption “With you. #KeepRacismOut,” expressing their unwavering support and condemnation of racism. This public display of support is crucial in combating racism, sending a clear message that such behavior is unacceptable and that clubs stand firmly behind their players. However, the absence of a statement from Serie B at the time of reporting raises concerns about the league’s responsiveness to such incidents and the effectiveness of its anti-racism measures. This silence underscores the need for proactive and consistent actions from footballing authorities to address the root causes of racism and ensure the safety and well-being of all players.
Akinsanmiro’s journey to Italian football began with Beyond Limits Football Academy, sister club of Nigerian Premier Football League side Remo Stars, before joining Inter Milan in January 2023. He quickly made his mark in the Inter U-19 team, earning a promotion to the senior squad and making a Serie A appearance last season. To gain more experience and playing time, he was loaned to Sampdoria in Serie B, where he has become a regular feature, making 21 appearances and scoring one goal prior to the incident. His talent and progression highlight the promising future he has in the sport, but the incident also brings to light the challenges young players of color face in navigating professional football, adding another layer to the discussion of combating racism and creating inclusive environments in the sport.
This incident involving Akinsanmiro is not an isolated case. Racism continues to plague football across different leagues and countries, demanding a concerted effort from all stakeholders to eradicate this scourge. It requires consistent and robust actions from governing bodies, clubs, players, and fans alike. The need for stronger sanctions against perpetrators, educational programs to raise awareness, and support systems for victims are crucial steps in creating a truly inclusive and respectful environment for all players, regardless of their background. The fight against racism in football is a collective responsibility, and this incident serves as a stark reminder of the work that still needs to be done to ensure that the beautiful game is free from discrimination and prejudice.
