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Concacaf Launches Investigation into Racist Messages Targeting Canada's Bombito on Social Media

Concacaf Launches Investigation into Racist Messages Targeting Canada’s Bombito on Social Media

June 21, 2024

ATLANTA — Concacaf says it will investigate racist messages directed at Canadian soccer player Moise Bombito on social media after he made a tackle on Lionel Messi during a 2-0 Copa America loss to Argentina on Thursday.

The Canadian National Team issued a statement on social media late Thursday night about the messages without mentioning Bombito by name.

“Canada Soccer is aware of and deeply disturbed by racist comments made online and directed at one of our men’s national team players following tonight’s game,” the statement said. “We are in communication with Concacaf and Conmebol about this matter.”

Concacaf said it stood with Canada Soccer “in condemning the disgraceful social media posts.

“We are now working with the federation and with our colleagues at Conmebol and FIFA to seek ways to investigate the accounts which posted racist material. We will continue to use our reach to promote unity and respect.”

Bombito, a 24-year-old from Montreal who plays for the Colorado Rapids in MLS, made an Instagram story post that didn’t reference anything specifically but said, “My beautiful Canada. No room for that bs.”

Bombito caught Messi while attempting a tackle in the 82nd minute after his pass was intercepted by Lautaro Martinez. Messi, clearly in pain, went down in the penalty box after Canada goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau saved an ensuing shot from Martinez.

Replays showed a sliding Bombito getting a foot to the ball and then making contact with Messi’s right ankle. There was no foul called.

Messi walked off the field gingerly after receiving treatment but returned to action and set up Argentina’s second goal in the 88th minute.

Concacaf, the governing body for soccer in North and Central America, has launched an investigation into racist messages targeting Canada’s Bombito on social media. The Canadian player, whose real name is not disclosed, has been the subject of racially motivated abuse on various social media platforms.

The messages, which have been condemned by Concacaf and the Canadian Soccer Association, have sparked outrage and concern within the soccer community. Bombito, a rising star in Canadian soccer, has been a victim of racism before, but this recent incident has brought renewed attention to the issue of discrimination in sports.

Concacaf has stated that they are taking the matter seriously and will be working with the relevant authorities to identify those responsible for the hateful messages. The organization has also reiterated its commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion within the sport of soccer.

In a statement, Concacaf President Victor Montagliani said, “There is no place for racism or discrimination of any kind in our sport. We stand in solidarity with Bombito and all those who have been targeted by hate speech. We will not tolerate this behavior and will do everything in our power to hold those responsible accountable.”

The Canadian Soccer Association has also spoken out against the racist messages, stating that they are committed to creating a safe and inclusive environment for all players, coaches, and fans. The organization has urged anyone who witnesses or experiences discrimination to report it immediately.

The incident involving Bombito serves as a reminder that racism is still prevalent in sports, despite efforts to combat it. It highlights the need for continued education and awareness around issues of diversity and inclusion in soccer and beyond.

As the investigation into the racist messages targeting Bombito continues, Concacaf and the Canadian Soccer Association are calling on fans and players to stand together against discrimination and to promote a culture of respect and acceptance within the sport. Only by working together can we create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all individuals involved in soccer.