Chelsea issue statement as Wesley Fofana subjected to 'vile' racist abuse

Wesley Fofana was sent off during Chelsea's Premier League clash with Burnley on Saturday afternoon

Chelsea have issued a statement on Wesley Fofana after learning of the alleged racist abuse the centre‑back received following his red card against Burnley. The defender was sent off after picking up a yellow card in each half.

A statement read: "Chelsea Football Club is appalled and disgusted by vile online racist abuse directed at Wesley Fofana. The targeted racist abuse Wes has been subjected to following today’s Premier League fixture against Burnley is abhorrent and will not be tolerated.

"Such behaviour is completely unacceptable and runs counter to the values of the game and everything we stand for as a club. There is no room for racism.

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"We stand unequivocally with Wes. He has our full support, as do all our players who are too often forced to endure this hatred simply for doing their job. We will work with the relevant authorities and platforms in identifying the perpetrators and take the strongest possible action."

The Frenchman took to social media to expose some of the horrific messages he received. In five separate posts, he shared screenshots of users sending him racial slurs and offensive emojis.

He wrote: "2026, it's still the same thing, nothing changes. These people are never punished. You create big campaigns against racism, but nobody actually does anything."

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