This archive report was first published on 4 September 2019.
September 4, 2019, marked a significant step in Twitter's efforts to combat racist behavior on its platform. The social media giant has taken action against more than 700 examples of hateful conduct in the last two weeks, following the racist abuse of several Premier League players.
Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba and Chelsea forward Tammy Abraham were among those targeted after missing penalties for their clubs. Twitter has stated that it will continue to take swift action against users who engage in such behavior.
United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Chelsea head coach Frank Lampard have been vocal about the need for social media companies to do more to curb racist behavior on their platforms. Twitter has met with clubs and other football bodies to tackle the issue collectively.
"This vile content has no place on our service," Twitter said in a statement. "We want to play our part in curbing this unacceptable behavior."
"In the past two weeks, we have taken action on more than 700 examples of abuse and hateful conduct related to UK football. We will continue to take swift action on the minority that try to undermine the conversation for the majority," Twitter stated. "Working with the Professional Footballers' Association, we will participate in their player training programme, and will be joining a series of educational sessions with its membership to support the PFA's ambition to tackle the issue," Twitter added.
