Brazilian star’s racist abuse condemned

Partizan Belgrade on Monday “strongly condemned” racist abuse directed at its Brazilian star Everton Luiz, declaring the midfielder had “won the hearts of fans”.

The 28-year-old was reduced to tears at monkey chants he received from fans of city rival Rad, local media reported.

The match was suspended late in the second half after some Rad fans brandished a banner insulting Luiz, who won the Serbian Cup last year with Partizan.

“We strongly condemn perpetrators of this insane act,” Partizan said in a statement on its website.

“Partizan feels obliged to apologize to all those insulted and hurt by racist chanting during the match,” it added.

“We fully support one of the best players of our club, Everton, who has won the hearts of fans during his stay in Serbia in the last year.”