Jakarta, CNN Indonesia —
European football’s governing body (UEFA) is investigating a racially charged celebration of Austria’s Marko Arnautovic’s goal against North Macedonia in Euro 2020 (Euro 2021).
After scoring Austria’s third goal against North Macedonia, Arnautovic hurled racist remarks at one of the opposing players named Ezgjan Alioski.
Arnautovic has apologized for the controversial celebration that went viral.
“There were heated words yesterday regarding emotion in the game and I want to apologize, especially to my friends from North Macedonia and Albania.”
“I want to say one thing clearly: I AM NOT A RACIST! I have friends in almost every country and I support diversity. Everyone who knows me is aware of that,” Arnautovic wrote on Instagram.
But the apology of the former Inter Milan player did not stop UEFA from investigating the case.
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UEFA has launched an official investigation into Arnautovic’s actions after receiving a complaint from the North Macedonian Football Association (FFM) demanding a severe punishment for Arnautovic.
“In accordance with Article 31(4) of the UEFA Disciplinary Rules, an Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector has been appointed to investigate the incident involving the player Marko Arnautovic that occurred during Euro 2020. Further information on this matter will be available in due course,” a UEFA statement read. .
The words Arnautovic uttered to Alioski contained anti-Albanian insults. Arnautovic, who has an Austrian passport, is of Serbian descent.
Serbia and Albania tensions stemmed from the Kosovo War which also strained relations between Serbia and North Macedonia.
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