When Mario Balotelli joined Liverpool in August from AC Milan, Reds fans everywhere knew that some sort of controversy would almost inevitably be stirred up by the striker on his return to England, but few could have predicted that he’d end up receiving an FA charge for posting a picture on social media that contained anti-Semitic and racist references.
Well, following his ill-advised posting on Instagram earlier in the week, that’s exactly what’s happened with the FA releasing a statement earlier today explaining why they decided to take action. “It is alleged the Liverpool player breached FA Rule E3[1] in that his posting was abusive and/or insulting and/or improper” it read. “It is further alleged that this is an ‘Aggravated Breach’ as defined by FA Rule E3[2] as it included a reference to ethnic origin and/or colour and/or race and/or nationality and/or religion or belief.”
To be fair, it’s hard to picture Balotelli, who has had not only been on the receiving end of a number of well documented incidents of racism in the past, but has been a very vocal advocate for equality, harbouring any particular racial bias or anti-Semitic beliefs. What’s far more likely is the striker — not one who is known to be particularly intelligent — reposted the picture without considering that some people may not pick up on the ironic nature of him doing so. Although an unreserved apology, which was unprompted by the FA, quickly followed suit, the 24-year old faces a ban of five matches if he’s found guilty. He’s been given until December 15th to formally respond to the charges.
“We acknowledge the FA’s decision and the player will work through the process to answer the charge” said a Liverpool spokesperson when asked to comment on the football association’s decision. “While that process is on-going the club will make no further comment.” Balotelli was given until 18:00 today to provide evidence to the FA of racial abuse that he’s suffered in the past as well as an explanation for his decision to post the picture.
