Michy Batshuayi mocks Uefa over decision not to punish Atalanta fans’ alleged racism

Borussia Dortmund striker Michy Batshuayi questioned if Uefa cared about tackling racism after European football’s governing body rejected his complaint

Batshuayi accused Atalanta fans of racist abuse (Getty)

Borussia Dortmund striker Michy Batshuayi questioned if Uefa cared about tackling racism on Thursday after European football’s governing body rejected his complaint that Atalanta fans subjected him to abuse during a Europa League game in Italy.

“LOL. Must be my imagination,” Batshuayi wrote on Twitter after news broke of the Uefa verdict. ”It’s just monkey noise who cares?” he added. “2018 guys.”

The Belgium international, who is on loan at Dortmund from Chelsea, had tweeted after the February game: “2018 and still racists monkey noises in the stands ... really?!”

Uefa did not explain why it dropped the charge against Atlanta, announcing only that it decided “to close the disciplinary proceedings opened for racist or discriminatory behaviour”. There have been several incidents of racism at matches in Italy this season.

Uefa did sanction Atalanta and Dortmund for other offences by fans at the game. Atalanta were fined €34,000 after its fans set off fireworks, threw objects, and blocked a stairwell. Dortmund were fined €40,000 over the use of fireworks and the hurling of objects by supporters.

AP