Spurs Condemn Racist Abuse Targeting Kevin Danso
Kevin Danso joined Tottenham Hotspur in 2025.
Tottenham Hotspur have condemned the "vile, dehumanising racism" directed at defender Kevin Danso on social media following their 2-2 draw against Brighton on Saturday.
An error from Danso allowed Brighton's Georginio Rutter to equalise in stoppage time, leaving Spurs in the Premier League relegation zone.
In a statement, the club confirmed they have reported the "significant and abhorrent" abuse faced by the 27-year-old Danso to the police and relevant authorities.
"We will push for the strongest possible action against each and every person we identify," said Spurs.
"Kevin has our complete and unconditional support as a player and as a person. No-one at this club will ever stand alone in the face of this.
"Nothing about form or league position can ever excuse or explain racist abuse. There is no connection between performance on the pitch and the right to target a player with discrimination.
"We have heard and seen vile, dehumanising racism. Behaviour that is without doubt a criminal offence. It will not be tolerated."
Context of the Abuse and Club Response
The abuse occurred during the Premier League's No Room For Racism campaign this weekend, which aims to promote diversity and combat discrimination within football.
Danso, an Austrian centre-back, addressed the abuse in an Instagram post, stating it "doesn't define me" and "won't distract me from what is important."
"I know who I am, what I stand for, and why I play," he added.
The Premier League also issued a statement condemning discriminatory abuse.
"Discriminatory abuse has absolutely no place in football or wider society," the Premier League said.
"Anybody who chooses to abuse others is not welcome in our game and they are not a true fan. It is clear that more needs to be done to address this issue and we will work alongside clubs, football bodies, law enforcement and social media companies to ensure this remains a priority for all.
"Any individuals identified and found guilty of discrimination will face the strongest possible consequences, including club bans and legal prosecution."
Support from Anti-Discrimination Charity Kick It Out
Anti-discrimination charity Kick It Out released a statement in support of Danso and other players facing similar abuse.
"We stand with Kevin Danso and all players who are calling out this vile abuse. It takes huge courage and Kevin's response is incredibly powerful.
"Reports of discrimination sent to Kick It Out - whether in the professional game, grassroots or online - continue to rise this season, but we will meet that with the same force."
The charity added it will continue collaborating with clubs, governing bodies, authorities, and regulators to hold offenders accountable and ensure social media platforms provide greater protection for players.
Recent Incidents of Racist Abuse in the Premier League
This incident is the latest in a series of racist abuse cases targeting Premier League players this season. In February, four players were targeted during a single weekend.
Earlier this week, Manchester City forward Antoine Semenyo highlighted further racial abuse he has endured. A 47-year-old man was arrested and charged by Merseyside Police following racist abuse directed at Semenyo while playing for his former club Bournemouth earlier this season.
The UK Football Policing Unit (UKFPU) is investigating the abuse of four players in February, including Sunderland defender Lutsharel Geertruida, Burnley midfielder Hannibal Mejbri, Chelsea defender Wesley Fofana, and Wolves striker Tolu Arokodare.
On Monday, Sunderland condemned racist abuse aimed at forward Brian Brobbey on social media after their 1-0 league victory over Tottenham.
FA probes alleged discriminatory remark to referee
Latest Tottenham news, analysis and fan views
Ask about Tottenham - what do you want to know?
