Inter Milan defender Francesco Acerbi is at risk of missing the rest of the season through suspension after an alleged racism incident.
Italian news outlet Calcio e Finanza highlight the potential consequences of the alleged incident during yesterday’s Serie A match against Napoli, noting that a ten-match ban would be possible.
Yesterday evening’s Serie A match between Inter and Napoli was marred by an alleged racism incident.
The incident took place just before the hour mark.
Napoli defender Juan Jesus told referee Federico La Penna that Inter defender Acerbi had used a racist slur against him.
At the time, La Penna did not do anything to sanction Acerbi.
The referee restarted play after a tense exchange involving Jesus and Acerbi.
However, there could be further consequences for the 36-year-old Nerazzurri player. This depends on what the relevant authorities find.
Francesco Acerbi Risks Ten-Match Ban For Alleged Racism Incident
Calcio e Finanza notes that there is a protocol in the Code of Sports Justice in Italy for racism incidents.
Article 28 of the Code specifically pertains to the use of discriminatory language by athletes.
That article prohibits any speech which discriminates on the basis of race, among other protected characteristics.
Naturally, the use of a racial slur could certainly fall within the purview of that article.
And article 28 is clear on the punishment for racist acts by athletes. A suspension of at least ten matchdays would be the punishment.
Therefore, the investigation into the alleged incident involving Acerbi and Jesus will be crucial.
If the authorities do find that Acerbi racially abused the Napoli player, then the former Lazio and Sassuolo defender could face a lengthy ban.
And considering that there are just nine matches to go in Serie A, Acerbi would then be out for the rest of the season.
