March 6 – CONCACAF has cleared LAFC defender Sergi Palencia of using discriminatory language towards Colorado Rapids defender Chidozie Awaziem in last month’s CONCACAF Champions Cup match.
The game was entering its final minutes with LAFC leading 1-0 when the game was stopped after Awaziem accused Palencia of using ‘hate speech’ towards him.
Afterwards, Colorado coach Chris Armas said Awaziem was shaken after he claimed to have been called a derogatory term. Awaziem also posted on social media, saying he believed he “was subjected to abusive language on the field”.
Colorado later issued a statement supporting Awaziem and decrying discriminatory language. It said: “The Colorado Rapids fully support CONCACAF’s ongoing investigation into the reported use of abusive language by an LAFC player. As a club, we do not tolerate any form of abuse and we stand with our players following these very serious allegations. This language has no place in our game.”
CONCACAF’s Disciplinary Committee investigated the claim and cleared Palencia of any discriminatory actions following what it described as “a thorough review of the match officials’ reports, available match footage and audios, and the respective positions of both clubs”.
It added: “While the evidence confirms that the interaction between Palencia and Colorado Rapids player Chidozie Awaziem involved inappropriate language, it is clear to the Committee that the word reported by the Colorado Rapids in its official position to CONCACAF was not used.
“CONCACAF will continue to urge teams, players and fans to participate in our sport positively and with respect for the opposition. There is no room for discrimination in our game.”
The Rapids have yet to comment on CONCACAF’s ruling.
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