Liverpool have issued a statement condemning the racist abuse reported by Bournemouth winger Antoine Semenyo during Friday’s Premier League opener.
Referee Anthony Taylor paused proceedings 30 minutes into the opening game of the Premier League season, after Semenyo reported racist abuse from a Liverpool fan.
The official held a lengthy discussion with Arne Slot and Bournemouth counterpart Andoni Iraola, along with the player himself, before the game restarted.
Liverpool have now provided a statement on the incident, pledging support to an investigation and condemning any acts of racism.
“Liverpool Football Club is aware of an allegation of racist abuse made during our Premier League game against AFC Bournemouth,” their statement begins.
“We condemn racism and discrimination in all forms, it has no place in society or football.
“The club is unable to comment further as tonight’s alleged incident is the subject of an ongoing police investigation, which we will support fully.”
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - Friday, August 15, 2025: Back of Bournemouth's Antoine Semenyo during the FA Premier League match between Liverpool FC and AFC Bournemouth at Anfield. (Photo by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)
A Premier League statement reads:
“The incident at Anfield will now be fully investigated. We offer our full support to the player and both clubs.
“Racism has no place in our game, or anywhere in society.
“We will continue to work with stakeholders and authorities to ensure our stadiums are an inclusive and welcoming environment for all.”
Speaking to Sky Sports after the game, Bournemouth captain Adam Smith said: “It’s totally unacceptable.
“I’m kind of in shock to be honest that it happened, in this day and age it shouldn’t be happening.
“I don’t know how Ant’s played on to be honest and came up with those goals, it’s totally unacceptable.
“Something needs to be done. Taking a knee and doing this is having no effect. We’ll support him in there and hopefully he’ll be OK.”
Semenyo scored twice after the incident in a game which Liverpool went on to win 4-2.