US Soccer slams racist online abuse directed at Tim Weah and others after Copa America loss
Tim Weah and other members of the U.S. national team were the targets of racist abuse on social media after the Americans were defeated 2-1 by Panama in the Copa America on Thursday night.
The U.S. Soccer Federation said in a statement that it was “deeply shocked by the racist comments made online.”
Weah, who is black, was sent off in the 18th minute after hitting a Panama player.
It was the first red card for an American player since Jimmy Conrad was sent off during a friendly against Honduras in 2010.
The short-handed Americans nearly held on for a draw, but Panama scored a late goal that seriously threatened the U.S.’s hopes of advancing past the first round.
Tim Weah leaves the field after receiving a red card in the first half of the US-Panama match
US Soccer said several of its players were targeted with racist comments.
“There is absolutely no place in the game for such hateful and discriminatory behavior,” the statement said.
“These actions are not only unacceptable, but also contrary to the values of respect and inclusivity that we uphold as an organization.”
US Soccer will offer mental health services to any player or staff member who requests them. The governing body also reported the racist abuse to CONMEBOL, the tournament’s South American organizers.
Woe has offered a public apology on social media for a loss of composure that cost his team dearly.
“Whatever happens, I will always fight for my team and my country, until the day I am no longer needed or able to do so!” he said.
‘I sincerely apologize to everyone. My love for this team goes beyond football and I am so sad and angry with myself for putting my brothers through what they went through tonight.”