Liverpool Police Arrest Man Over Racist Abuse Incident

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A 47-year-old man has been arrested after a Bournemouth player reported being racially abused during his team’s Premier League fixture against Liverpool on Friday evening.

Merseyside Police confirmed on Saturday that the suspect, a resident of Liverpool, was taken into custody on suspicion of committing a racially aggravated public order offence. He remains under investigation while officers carry out interviews.

The incident took place during the first half of the opening Premier League match of the 2025–26 season at Anfield. Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo reported hearing racist abuse from a section of the home crowd, prompting referee Anthony Taylor to briefly stop the game in the 29th minute. Stadium stewards identified a spectator, and the man was ejected from the ground shortly afterwards.

Chief Inspector Kev Chatterton, match commander for the Liverpool versus Bournemouth fixture, said Merseyside Police take such offences extremely seriously.

“Merseyside Police will not tolerate hate crime of any form. We will be proactively seeking football banning orders, alongside the club, against those responsible,” he said.
“There is no place for racism and anyone who witnesses such an offence must report it to stewards or the police immediately so we can take the necessary action, as we did this evening.”

Liverpool Football Club also stated the match. A spokesperson said the club was aware of the allegation of racist abuse and strongly condemned the behaviour.

“Liverpool Football Club condemns racism and discrimination in all forms; it has no place in society or football,” the statement read.

The referee spoke with both managers, Arne Slot of Liverpool and Andoni Iraola of Bournemouth, before allowing the game to resume. Semenyo later continued playing.

This case highlights the continued efforts by football authorities and police to combat racist behaviour inside stadiums. Under UK law, racially aggravated public order offences can result in criminal prosecution and long-term bans from football grounds. The Football Association and Premier League have also increased measures in recent years to tackle abuse, with clubs working closely with law enforcement to identify offenders.

Incidents of racism within football have drawn repeated criticism from players, managers, and governing bodies. Campaigns such as “Kick It Out” and the Premier League’s anti-discrimination initiatives have reinforced the message that abusive behaviour will not be tolerated.

The arrest in Liverpool follows several similar cases across the UK where spectators have faced bans and criminal charges for racist abuse towards players. Authorities hope strong enforcement will deter others and reinforce that stadiums must remain safe environments for athletes and supporters alike.

Merseyside Police confirmed the investigation is ongoing and further action, including possible charges, may follow once interviews and evidence reviews are complete.