Lille to take legal action against own fans after racist abuse mars recent games

French club Lille has announced it will be taking unprecedented action against its own fans by taking legal action after racist abuse and hate speech were reported during recent matches against Red Star Belgrade and Strasbourg. The Ligue 1 club condemned what it called “unacceptable behaviour” and confirmed that police complaints are being prepared.

“LOSC strongly condemns the hateful comments and racist insults made by certain individuals in the visitors’ section during trips to Belgrade and Strasbourg,” the club said in a statement.

“Such behaviour is unacceptable and completely contrary to the values that the club consistently upholds and promotes.”

Footage circulating on social media appeared to show Lille fans shouting racist slurs during Sunday’s 2-0 defeat at Strasbourg, just days after a similar incident during their Europa League loss to Red Star. The club has said that they will be trying to identify those responsible, vowing to “pursue legal action and seek appropriate sanctions.”

It’s the latest in a string of racist incidents to mar European football this season, underlining how racism in football, far from disappearing, continues to fester in the stands and online.

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