Accused of racism by Juan Jesus (Naples), Francesco Acerbi (Inter Milan) was the subject of an investigation by the Italian football league. A week after the opening of the investigation, it was abandoned for lack of evidence. In a press release published by his club, the Brazilian reacted to this court decision, saying he was “sincerely discouraged”.
“I have read on several occasions, with great regret, the decision by which the sports judge considered that there was no proof that I had been the victim of racist insults during the Inter-Napoli match on 17 last March: it is an assessment that – while respecting it – I have difficulty understanding and which leaves me with great bitterness.
“Those who find themselves in my situation will act very differently to protect themselves”
Juan Jesus in his press release.
I am sincerely discouraged by the outcome of a serious matter that I made the mistake of handling as a gentleman, avoiding interrupting an important match […] It is likely that after this decision, those who find themselves in my situation will act very differently to protect themselves and try to stem the shame of racism which, unfortunately, is difficult to disappear.
I do not feel in any way protected by this decision, torn between the obligation to admit that “the proof of the offense is certainly established” and the assertion that there is no certainty as to its discriminatory nature. […] I don’t understand, in fact, how the phrase “go black, you’re just a nigger…” could certainly be offensive, but not discriminatory. I sincerely hope that this sad affair can help the entire world of football to reflect on an issue that is as serious as it is urgent. »
