Police investigation has commenced as Premier League and Liverpool issue statements condemning the act
Racist abuse directed towards Bournemouth’s sensational winger Antoine Semenyo has clouded what would otherwise have been a perfect start to the 2025-26 Premier League season.
In the first half, the referee Anthony Taylor was called over and the game temporarily paused after Semenyo made it clear he had received discriminatory abuse from the crowd.
The man behind the incident, a Liverpool fan, was escorted out of the stadium in his wheelchair at half time. Semenyo scored twice in the second half as Bournemouth drew level at Anfield from two goals down, before late strikes from Federico Chiesa and Mohamed Salah gave the champions the opening day victory.
After the match the Premier League issued a statement condemning the abuse directed towards Semenyo.
“Tonight’s match between Liverpool Football Club and AFC Bournemouth was temporarily paused during the first half after a report of discriminatory abuse from the crowd, directed at Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo,” the statement read.
“This is in line with the Premier League’s on-field anti-discrimination protocol.
“The incident at Anfield will now be fully investigated. We offer our full support to the player and both clubs.
“Racism has no place in our game, or anywhere in society. We will continue to work with stakeholders and authorities to ensure our stadiums are an inclusive and welcoming environment for all.”
Liverpool FC said: “We condemn racism and discrimination in all forms, it has no place in society or football.
“The club is unable to comment further as tonight’s alleged incident is the subject of an ongoing police investigation, which we will support fully.”
