Football
ESPN staff 10y

Tavecchio claims to be investigated

CONCACAF president Jeffrey Webb has responded to allegations that Italian FA presidential candidate Carlo Tavecchio made racist remarks.

Webb, who is chairman of FIFA's task force against racism and discrimination, issued a statement on the CONCACAF website:

"The football community is appalled by the recent racist comments made by the Italian Football Federation Vice President, Mr. Carlo Tavecchio, a year after FIFA Member Associations unanimously approved a resolution to fight against racism and discrimination.

"After addressing the issue with the Italian Football Federation (FIGC), FIFA and the Anti-Racism and Discrimination Task Force are looking deeper into this matter, while awaiting its official response.

"The FIGC and the football family at large deserve exemplary leadership capable of directing the industry in a transparent way for a dignified, diverse and inclusive society.

"As guiding voices within our communities, we strongly urge all football officials to speak and act in a responsible manner, adhering to the principle of respect that every human merits."

- Italian FA vice president embroiled in racism row

Tavecchio is facing calls to withdraw his presidential candidacy after reportedly telling the summer meeting of Italy's amateur leagues: "In England, they identify the players coming in and, if they are professional, they are allowed to play.

"Here instead we get 'Opti Poba' [a hypothetical player], who previously ate bananas and then suddenly becomes a first-team player with Lazio. That's how it is here. In England, you need to demonstrate what you have on your CV."

The 71-year old issued an immediate apology, saying his words had been intended to be interpreted in a different way, but denied he was racist.

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