Tottenham forward Richarlison de Andrade, has said racism in football would continue to occur unless punishment is handed out.
Richarlison stated this after a banana was thrown at him in the 19th minute of the friendly match between Brazil and Tunisia in Paris, on Tuesday.
The player, who ran towards the corner flag to celebrate scoring his side’s second goal in the 5-1 win at Parc des Princes, was stoned from the crowd.
Footage showed Manchester United midfielder, Fred, kicking the banana away, while other objects were also thrown onto the pitch.
Translated from Portuguese, Richarlison posted on Twitter after the match saying, “As long as they stay ‘blah blah blah’ and don’t punish, it’s going to continue like this, happening every day and everywhere. No time bro!”
The 25-year-old received plenty of messages of support on social media, including from former clubs America Mineiro and Fluminense.
Prior to the game, five-time world champions Brazil, had posed for photographs with an anti-racism banner which read, “Without our black players, we wouldn’t have stars on our shirts.”
The Brazilian Football Federation later issued a statement via Twitter, condemning the abuse on Richarlison and calling for strong punishment.
It read, “After Brazil’s second goal, a banana was thrown towards Richarlison. The CBF reinforces its stance against discrimination and vehemently repudiates yet another episode of racism in football.
“Whether on or off the field, attitude like this cannot be tolerated.”
CBF President, Ednaldo Rodrigues added, “This time I saw it with my own eyes. This shocks us. We must always remember that we are all the same, regardless of colour, race or religion.
“The fight against racism is not a cause, but a fundamental battle for change to wipe this type of crime from the planet. I insist on saying that the punishments need to be more severe.”
Richarlison’s goal had put Brazil back ahead after Raphinha’s opener was cancelled.
Neymar added a penalty kick, Raphinha claimed his second and Pedro wrapped up the scoring after Tunisia had Dylan Bronn sent off.
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