Chelsea’s Fofana and Burnley’s Mejbri Face Racist Abuse After Premier League Match

During Saturday’s Premier League fixture between Chelsea and Burnley, both Chelsea defender Wesley Fofana and Burnley midfielder Hannibal Mejbri were subjected to racist abuse online following the 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge. The incidents have prompted condemnation from both clubs and renewed calls to combat online discrimination.

Fofana Sent Off, Targeted with Abuse

Wesley Fofana, 25, received a second yellow card in the 72nd minute, leading to his dismissal from the match. Subsequently, he became the target of racist messages on Instagram. Fofana shared screenshots of the abuse, which included derogatory remarks and monkey emojis. He expressed his frustration with the lack of consequences for such behavior, stating, “In 2026, it’s still the same thing, nothing changes. These people are never punished. You create big campaigns against racism, but no one does anything.”

This is not the first instance of Fofana being targeted with racist abuse. He previously received similar insults following Chelsea’s defeat against Arsenal in March 2025. Wesley Fofana currently plays as a centre-back for Chelsea.

Mejbri Likewise Subjected to Racist Attacks

Hannibal Mejbri, who was involved in the challenge that led to Fofana’s first yellow card, also reported receiving racist messages. One message reportedly referred to him as a “terrorist monkey,” accompanied by offensive emojis.

Club Responses and Condemnation

Burnley FC swiftly condemned the abuse directed at Mejbri, stating they were “disgusted” by the online racist insults. The club confirmed they had reported the incident to Meta (Instagram’s parent company), the Premier League, and the police. Burnley reiterated its “zero tolerance” approach to all forms of discrimination. ESPN reported on the club’s response.

Chelsea also released a statement expressing their support for Fofana and denouncing the “heinous racist insults” he received. The club affirmed that such behavior “will not be tolerated” and stated they are working with authorities and platforms to take “the strongest possible measures.”

Growing Concerns Over Racism in Football

These incidents occur amidst a broader context of increasing racism in European football, notably the targeting of Vinicius Junior in the Champions League. English authorities are facing renewed pressure to strengthen efforts to combat online discrimination, as players continue to be exposed to hateful messages on social media.