Cardiff City issue statement as FA open investigation over allegations of discriminatory behaviour at age-grade level
CARDIFF CITY FC
Friday 23rd July 2021
Cardiff City say the club has a "zero-tolerance policy" towards racism amid an FA probe
Cardiff City are fully co-operating with the FA probe
The Football Association has launched an investigation into allegations of discriminatory behaviour at Cardiff City.
It's understood that the investigation is in relation to a youngster within the club's academy system, who was allegedly racially abused by team-mates.
An official investigation has now been opened, with Cardiff insisting they hold a 'zero-tolerance' policy towards racism.
The FA has declined to formally comment on the details of the allegations while the investigation is ongoing, but a source has confirmed that the probe relates to accusations of discriminatory behaviour.
In response to the allegations, a spokesperson for Cardiff City :
CARDIFF CITY FC:
"It is not appropriate for us to comment in detail due to the very complex circumstances surrounding the enquiry and the allegations made.
"No coaches or staff are involved in the enquiry, other than to provide evidence if called upon, and it surrounds interactions between players who were 10 or 11 years of age at the time. We are fully co-operating with the FA compliance department.
"We are concerned that the media are portraying young children in such a poor light, when there is an ongoing investigation which is not as straightforward as reported.
"We would hope you appreciate the sensitivities around these issues, especially taking into account the age of the boys concerned and the impact on the individuals within the group and the player himself.
"The EFL and Premier League have strict rules on training compensation and all clubs are expected to abide by them.
"We have a zero-tolerance policy towards racism, and social tolerance is a key part of our education programmes.
"We will make a further statement upon completion of the enquiry."
A spokesperson for anti-racism charity Show Racism the Red Card added: “Show Racism the Red Card have been made aware of allegations of racism involving youth players at Cardiff City Academy.
"We believe that the process of investigating these allegations has begun by the FA. We will wait for the appropriate bodies to make a thorough and formal investigation before we make any further comments.
"Show Racism the Red Card will continue to work with communities providing educational workshops and reinforcing our zero-tolerance stance against racism and all forms of discrimination in all parts of our society”