Romelu Lukaku was racially abused by a section of Juventus fans during Inter’s Coppa Italia clash with La Vecchia Signora in Turin on Tuesday evening.
The incident occurred during the 1-1 draw at the Allianz Stadium in the first leg of the two rivals’ Coppa Italia semi-final clash. Juan Cuadrado had given Juve a late lead in the game before Lukaku converted a penalty with the last kick of the game to draw his side level.
In response to racial abuse directed at him from Juventus fans, Lukaku celebrated the goal by shushing the curva.
Following a melee after said celebration, Lukaku was, shockingly, shown a second yellow card and sent off by the referee. After the incident on Tuesday night, the Inter striker – currently on loan from Chelsea – posted on Instagram condemning the racist abuse he received.
“History repeats itself,” he said. “Been through it in 2019…and 2023 again…I hope the league really take actions for real this time because this beautiful game should be enjoyed by everyone.
“Thank you for the supportive messages. F*ck racism.”
Both clubs have also released statements condemning Juve fans’ actions on Tuesday evening.
Inter’s statement reads: “We are brothers and sisters of the world. Since 9 March 1908 this has been our story.
“We want to firmly reiterate that we stand united against racism and all forms of discrimination. Football and sport must not only be a place for emotion but also for clear and shared values, and what we saw last night in the final minutes of the Juventus vs. Inter Coppa Italia semi-final in Turin has no place in our sport. This is why we reiterate our support, affection and solidarity to Romelu Lukaku, just as the world of football is doing from all over since the incident.
“Stay strong Rom, we stand with you!”
While Juventus released a statement confirmed that they are working with the police to identify those fans responsible.
“Juventus Football Club, as always, are collaborating with the police to identify those responsible for the racist gestures and chants which took place last night.
“The Codice di Gradimento will be applied to those responsible.”
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