This archive report was first published on 18 September 2019.
Italian football authorities have been criticized for their handling of racism in the sport, with Fare's executive director, Piara Powar, stating that the Italian authorities and disciplinary system are 'not fit for purpose.'
The criticism comes after Cagliari were cleared of racist chanting towards Inter Milan striker Romelu Lukaku in a Serie A match, despite Lukaku being subjected to monkey chants by Cagliari fans.
According to Fare, the Italian authorities have failed to protect countless players from racism over the past year and have no meaningful response to the endemic racism in stadiums.
Belgium international Lukaku said the abuse he suffered showed the game was 'going backwards' and he hoped 'the football federations all over the world react strongly on all cases of discrimination.'
The incident is the third time Cagliari have been investigated for alleged racist abuse in the past two years, but no action was taken over any of the incidents.
Italian TV station Mediaset has banned pundit Luciano Passirani for making a racist comment about Lukaku.
Italian football authorities have been contacted for a response, but Fare is awaiting a reply.
