The Rational Ref | Storming off the pitch won't stop racism
It is responsibility of Fifa, Uefa and the clubs to show 'zero tolerance' on abuse from stands, not match officials, or players
Is having a strop, stamping one's foot and storming off the pitch the solution to stopping racism? It is if you're Kevin-Prince Boateng, who was racially abused in a recent friendly match between his Serie A side AC Milan and fourth division team Pro Patria.
The German-born Ghanaian player controversially abandoned the match by angrily kicking the ball into the crowd and walking off the pitch with some of his teammates.
Had this been a competitive fixture, Boateng's action would have opened up a huge can of worms. It could yet happen since Boateng has stated he would not hesitate to walk out in protest against racial abuse no matter what level the game, even a Champions League match.
Boateng's supporters include AC Milan owner Silvio Berlusconi, Manchester United's Rio Ferdinand, and Manchester City's Vincent Kompany. Damiano Tommasi, head of the Italian players' union Assocalciatori, said: "It's a strong, important signal that finally sets a precedent. It's good that it comes from first-rate players, who are usually accused of being less sensitive or less willing to make a stand."
Contrary to Tommasi's claim, many "first-rate" millionaire players are overly sensitive and ever willing to throw a tantrum. Boateng complained to the match referee: "If it happens again, I'm not going to play anymore. The referee said, 'don't worry', but I said I do worry, it's not very nice."
Whether naughty or nice, Boateng's attitude - like that of many highly paid soccer superstars who behave selfishly when things do not go their way - is unprofessional, irresponsible and childish.
This time Fifa president Sepp Blatter is correct. Walking out is the wrong way to tackle racism. "Walk off? No. I don't think you can run away because then the team should have to forfeit the match," said Blatter quoting regulation. "This issue is a very touchy subject, but I repeat there is zero tolerance of racism in the stadium. The only solution is to be very harsh with the sanctions."