Source: REUTERS/Craig Brough
[Saba Sports News] According to British media reports, Como player Marco Curto was banned for 10 matches by FIFA for racially discriminating against Wolves forward Hwang Hee-chan during a pre-season friendly match. Currently, Curto has been loaned to Cesena. A FIFA spokesperson stated: “Player Marco Curto has been found responsible for discriminatory behavior and is banned for 10 matches, with 5 matches suspended for two years. The player will be required to perform community service and undergo training and education with an organization approved by FIFA.” In July this year, the Korea Football Association contacted FIFA expressing serious concern over this incident. However, Como insisted that the incident was exaggerated; Curto told the club he had said to a teammate defender: “Don’t mind Hwang Hee-chan; he thinks he’s Jackie Chan.” After detailed discussions with their players, they are convinced this referred to the player’s name and his teammates often mentioning ‘Channy’ on the field. From the club’s perspective, their players did not say anything derogatory. They expressed disappointment at the reactions of some Wolves players and believe this incident has been exaggerated.