Search icon
Download the all-new Republic app:

Published 11:20 IST, December 9th 2020

PSG vs Istanbul Basaksehir suspended following racism saga; players, clubs react sternly

PSG vs Istanbul Basaksehir suspended following racist allegations against fourth official, inviting furious reactions from the two clubs as well as the players.

Reported by: Minaam Ansari
null | Image: self

In an unprecedented and condemnable turn of events, Ligue 1 giants Paris Saint-Germain's (PSG) Champions League clash against Istanbul Basaksehir was called off following alleged racist remarks from fourth official Sebastian Coltescu. The players lasted only 14 minutes and withdrew from the field after the racism allegations came to the fore. The game has been rescheduled and will now be played on Wednesday night at Parc des Princes. 

Also Read | Neymar 'wants to play with Messi again', plans to make things happen next year

PSG vs Istanbul Basaksehir suspended: Demba Ba racism argument doing rounds 

The matter came to light when Istanbul Basaksehir assistant coach Pierre Webo levelled racist allegations against the fourth official after he was sent off. This invited furious reactions from the Super Lig club who decided to walk off the field, in a display of strong intent against any sort of racism. 

Following queue, PSG decided to join their opponents off the field. Television microphones picked up Webo's words from the sidelines. The assistant coach is heard questioning the fourth official's use of a racist slur against him. Meanwhile, Basaksehir striker Demba Ba could also be seen raising stern objections against the alleged racism remarks. 

Also Read | Messi to PSG? Neymar's comments stir rumours as Barcelona contract edges conclusion

PSG vs Istanbul Basaksehir suspended: UEFA assures action against Sebastian Coltescu 

The striker, who was on the bench, could be heard saying, "When you mention a white guy, you never say 'this white guy', you just say 'this guy', so why when you mention a black guy do you say 'this black guy?". Besides, Basaksehir president, while speaking to Turkish television channel TRT Spor, has claimed his side will not play until the fourth official was involved. 

Following the incident, the European governing body UEFA sent out a stern statement against the allegations. The statement claimed that the body was well aware of the incident that took place in the game and will ensure a thorough investigation is conducted. 

Also Read | Cristiano Ronaldo thrilled to be Free Fire's new Chrono character, fans react

PSG match suspended: Mbappe, Neymar speak against racism

Istanbul Basaksehir took to Twitter to clear its stand against all sorts of racism. Besides, the defending Ligue 1 champions, in a major show of strength and solidarity, also hit out at Coltescu, claiming that all forms of racism go against the values of the Parc des Princes outfit. 

PSG superstar Kylian Mbappe took to Twitter to extend his support to Webo, stating that he has the support of the entire team against racism. His teammate Neymar Jr also came out in support of his Champions League opponent. The Brazil international tweeted his image, stating "Black Lives Matter."

Also Read | Cristiano Ronaldo's partner sports 90s throwback look ahead of Juventus vs Barcelona game

PSG vs Istanbul rematch on Wednesday 

Meanwhile, UEFA has confirmed that the PSG vs Istanbul rematch shall be played on Wednesday night, citing exceptional circumstances, from the minute the game was stopped. Besides, the governing body has also confirmed that a new team of match officials shall oversee the game. 

Image courtesy: PSG website 

Updated 11:20 IST, December 9th 2020

LIVE TV

Republic TV is India's no.1 English news channel since its launch.