Canada Soccer condemns 'disgusting' racial abuse toward Kaye after loss to Costa Rica
Canada Soccer released a statement condemning all forms of racism after midfielder Mark-Anthony Kaye was subject to numerous racist insults following Thursday’s 1-0 loss to Costa Rica.
Kaye was sent off in the 34th minute after fouling Costa Rica’s Johan Venegas while already on a yellow card, which prompted multiple offensive posts online.
Canada Soccer strongly condemns all forms of discrimination and is appalled by the online racism that has been aimed at a member of our squad on social media.#NoToRacism pic.twitter.com/igafqXjoN7
— Canada Soccer (@CanadaSoccerEN) March 25, 2022
Here is the statement, released on Friday afternoon:
Canada Soccer strongly condemns all forms of discrimination and is appalled by the online racism that has been aimed at a member of our squad on social media.
Such vile and disgusting behaviour is unacceptable. Full stop. We will do all we can to support our players — who have given everything to represent our country honourably — while urging the toughest punishments possible for anyone responsible.
Canada head coach John Herdman said he spoke to Kaye post-game, reinforcing that he has the full support of his teammates.
“I just had a moment with him and said, ‘Look, football, we learn. Pressure does things to people, it’s normal. We love you, you’re our brother and we move forward. We’ll fight again together,’ ” Herdman said post-game.
Racism has no place in sports, which is why we’re not going to share the vile comments that Kaye received post-game.
The 27-year-old Colorado Rapids player has been a vocal activist for racial equality through his professional career. He hasn't spoken out about the incident as of this writing.
Canada resumes its qualifying campaign against Jamaica on Sunday at Toronto’s BMO Field.
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