The incident happened during the first half of the Premier League opener between Liverpool and Bournemouth at Anfield
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - AUGUST 15: Antoine Semenyo of Bournemouth during the Premier League match between Liverpool and Bournemouth at Anfield on August 15, 2025 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Robin Jones - AFC Bournemouth/AFC Bournemouth via Getty Images)
Antoine Semenyo pictured during the Premier League match between Liverpool and Bournemouth at Anfield on August 15, 2025
(Image: Robin Jones - AFC Bournemouth/AFC Bournemouth via Getty Images)
Liverpool Football Club say they are supporting an ongoing police investigation after an allegation of racist abuse from Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo in Friday’s 4-2 win. The Reds kicked off the defence of their Premier League title with a victory at Anfield.
But the first half saw Semenyo allege to referee Anthony Taylor that he was racially abused while attempting to take a throw-in near the Main Stand.
The official paused the game to gather Liverpool head coach Arne Slot and Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola pitchside to update them on the situation. And the Reds have now published a statement condemning the alleged abuse at Semenyo, who went on to score both goals for the visitors on the night.
The Liverpool statement read: “Liverpool Football Club is aware of an allegation of racist abuse made during our Premier League game against Bournemouth.
“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.”
Posting on X on Friday evening as the match was ongoing, the Premier League Match Centre said: “Tonight's match between Liverpool Football Club and AFC Bournemouth was temporarily paused during the first half after a report of discriminatory abuse from the crowd, directed at Bournemouth's Antoine Semenyo.
“This is in line with the Premier League's on-field anti-discrimination protocol. 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.”
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