Michy Batshuayi Criticises UEFA After Atalanta Racism Investigation Is Dropped
March 30, 2018
Borussia Dortmund forward Michy Batshuayi has criticised UEFA on social media after an investigation into alleged racist abuse aimed at the player during a game against Atalanta was dropped.
As reported by Liam Prenderville of the Daily Mirror, the on-loan Chelsea striker made the complaint after a UEFA Europa League clash between the two teams, and European football's governing body said it would look into the allegations.
However, on Thursday it was confirmed no further action would be taken. Batshuayi made his feelings clear with these posts on Twitter:
As relayed by Rob Harris of the Associated Press, UEFA did not elaborate on why it has decided to end the investigation, noting it decided "to close the disciplinary proceedings opened for racist or discriminatory behaviour."
Per Harris, it's the second time in March that an investigation into alleged racist behaviour was closed. It was deemed a complaint made by Liverpool youngster Rhian Brewster in a UEFA Youth League game against Spartak Moscow's Leonid Mironov was not substantial enough to act upon.
The incident Batshuayi reported came in February at the Mapei Stadium, a temporary home for Atalanta during their stint in European competition. Afterwards Batshuayi posted the following message:
The Belgium international moved to Dortmund in January after struggling for minutes at Stamford Bridge, and he's settled in to life in the Bundesliga quickly. The 24-year-old has netted eight goals in 11 appearances for BVB.