A 47-year-old man from Liverpool has been arrested for allegedly racially abusing AFC Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo during the Premier League season opener against Liverpool at Anfield on Friday, August 15, 2025.
The incident led to a temporary stoppage of the match in the 29th minute after Semenyo reported the abuse to referee Anthony Taylor.
The suspect was swiftly ejected from the stadium and later arrested on suspicion of a racially aggravated public order offence.
He has been released on conditional bail, which prohibits him from attending or being within one mile of any football stadium in the UK. Merseyside Police are continuing their investigation in coordination with the football club.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino condemned the incident, stating, “It is absolutely unacceptable to see the racist abuse aimed at AFC Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo, which led to a stoppage of their Premier League match against Liverpool FC at Anfield. Football has no place for racism or any form of discrimination.”
Infantino emphasized FIFA’s commitment to eradicating racism from the sport and highlighted the involvement of the Players’ Voice Panel—a part of FIFA’s anti-racism framework adopted in 2024—to support Semenyo.
Semenyo, who scored both of Bournemouth’s goals in their 4-2 defeat, expressed gratitude for the widespread support he received from teammates, Liverpool players, and the broader football community following the incident.
He thanked both clubs, officials, and fans for their solidarity, noting that it was a reminder of the unity within the football community against racism.
“Last night at Anfield will stay with me forever – not because of one person’s words, but because of how the entire football family stood together. To my @afcb teammates who supported me in that moment, to the @liverpoolfc players and fans who showed their true character, to the @premierleague officials who handled it professionally – thank you. Football showed its best side when it mattered most.”
“Scoring those two goals felt like speaking the only language that truly matters on the pitch. This is why I play – for moments like these, for my teammates, for everyone who believes in what this beautiful game can be. The overwhelming messages of support from across the football world remind me why I love this sport. We keep moving forward, together.”
The incident has reignited discussions about racism in football, with both clubs and the Premier League reaffirming their commitment to inclusivity and zero tolerance for discrimination.
Premier League CEO Richard Masters stated that those found guilty of racism face stadium bans and possible legal action, underscoring the league’s dedication to maintaining a safe and respectful environment for all participants.