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U.S. Men's National Soccer Team 'Deeply Disturbed by the Racist Comments' After Loss During 2024 Copa América
"There is absolutely no place in the game for such hateful and discriminatory behavior," USMNT said in a statement
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The U.S. Soccer Men's National Team in 2024The U.S. Men's National Soccer Team has denounced the racist comments they received from fans after their loss during the Copa América tournament.
After the game on Thursday, June 27, in which U.S. soccer lost 2-1 to Panama, fans made racist comments about the team. According to CNN, team members, defender Chris Richards and striker Folarin Balogun, posted on their respective Instagram Stories screenshots of racist messages and comments they received online.
That evening, the team released a statement on X (formerly Twitter) denouncing the attacks. "U.S Soccer is aware of and deeply disturbed by the racist comments made online and directed at several of our Men's National Team players following tonight's match," they said.
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U.S. Soccer Men's National Team vs. Panama on June 27 2024Related: All About Christian Pulisic, the Soccer Star on the U.S. Men's National Team
"There is absolutely no place in the game for such hateful and discriminatory behavior," the statement continued. "These actions are not only unacceptable but also contrary to the values of respect and inclusivity that we uphold as an organization."
The statement concluded that U.S. Soccer "stands firmly against racism in all forms and will continue to support our players."
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CNN reported that earlier this month, FIFA beefed up their Social Media Protection Service (SMPS), which is a tool meant to shield soccer players from hateful commentary online.
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U.S. Soccer Men's National Team vs. Panama on June 27 2024Related: Alex Morgan 'Disappointed' After Not Being Named to USWNT Roster for the 2024 Summer Olympics
“Hate speech and abusive content on social media can have a significant impact on players, affecting mental health, performance and their friends and families," FIFA said, per CNN.
"FIFA’s priority is to protect players and make football a safe space."
Following the loss to Panama, the U.S. Soccer Men's National Team only has a match left with Uruguay in group play. The results of the upcoming Bolivia-Panama game will determine the team's fate for the remainder of the tournament.
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