This archive report was first published on 27 October 2019.
Footballers' Walk-Off Signals Tough New Attitude to Racism in Europe ¶
On October 25, a significant step was taken in the fight against racism in Britain when a team walked off the field in a professional football match.
The match between Haringey Borough and Yeovil Town was abandoned after Haringey's black goalkeeper, Valery Pajetat, was reportedly spat at and hit by an object thrown from behind the goal where Yeovil's supporters gathered.
Two days later, police arrested two men, aged 23 and 26, on suspicion of racially aggravated common assault.
This walk-off came at a time of growing pressure from England's top black players for teams to quit the field in such circumstances.
Just a few days before, during England's October 14 Euro 2020 game against Bulgaria in Sofia, some Bulgarian spectators began making monkey noises when England's black players were on the ball, while others gave straight-arm Nazi salutes.
England manager Gareth Southgate said the team's stance was not only the right one but an effective one, adding, “We reported everything immediately we heard things… We had constant communication with the officials and referee and I was in contact with the players. It was an unacceptable situation. I think we have made two statements, by winning the game but also we have raised awareness of everybody about the situation.”
Published on October 27, 2019.
