Drogba under fire
LONDON - Didier Drogba has been criticised by his own supporters after appearing to accuse football chiefs of prioritising sanctions for homophobia over racism as he threw his support behind Vinicius Jnr.
Vinicius has received widespread support from the majority of the football community, with Rio Ferdinand, along with fellow Brazilians, Ronaldo and Raphinha, showing solidarity with the forward.
And former Chelsea striker Drogba joined them but created controversy with what he said.
Tweeted
He tweeted: “This has to stop NOW. When will Federations, Leagues, @uefa_official @ fifa punish these clubs the way they are quick to punish players when they refuse to stand for a community that is against their beliefs for example?
“We’ve had all the talking, the outrage, the kneeling, the statements NOW WE NEED THE ACTIONS !!!!! Is the fight for equality not for all ???
“I mean is the fight against racism not important enough?
You can’t hide the sun with the hand, keep on shining bro @ vinijr we stand TOGETHER in this (sic).” While Drogba received support for his words behind Vinicius, he came under fire for what he seemed to insinuate with his tweet.
One individual replied: “Standing up for victims of racism, but not victims of homophobia, is that what you’re saying, Didier? What a disappointment you are.”
Another supporter added: “Nothing like a bit of bigotry on bigotry action, eh.”
Another fan said: “Awful first paragraph, Didier. We all want to fight for equality, but the best (and only) way to do that is not by belittling other causes. Racism and homophobia are two huge issues in football, neither of which are dealt with in any capacity by FIFA, UEFA, etc.”