Sad to report that 2013 will begin with little apparent progress in wiping sorry racism from the game.
This morning comes the disturbing – but not altogether surprising, if we’re being honest – story out of Italy, where the latest ugliness unfolded at a friendly between high-profile AC Milan and Italian fourth division club Pro Patria.
Ghanaian international Kevin-Prince Boateng and several black players were targeted by an element of Pro Patria supporters.
This story has one positive aspect: Boateng’s response. Visibly upset by the racist chants, Boateng led his team off the field.
What Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri told reporters afterward:We are disappointed and saddened by what has happened. Milan play for the right to respect all players. We need to stop these uncivilized gestures.
“We are sorry for all the other fans who came here for a beautiful day of sport. We promise to return, and we are sorry for the club and players of Pro Patria, but we could not make any other decision.
“I hope it can be an important signal.”