Police Investigate Bellingham and Saka's Discrimination During Euros

The *Daily Mail* reported that police will investigate the online racial abuse suffered by England football stars Bukayo Saka and Jude Bellingham during Euro 2024.

According to the *Daily Mail*, the FA has submitted a UEFA report to the police, which reveals that Saka and Bellingham endured the most severe online abuse throughout the tournament. Under the *Online Safety Act*, authorities are empowered to intervene in cases of online abuse. The police have now been informed of the messages targeting Saka and Bellingham. The FA has provided around £25,000 to fund the prosecution of the case.

In a UEFA report exclusively revealed by the *Daily Mail* last month, it was noted that Saka received the most "Level 1" abusive comments, with a total of 51, while Bellingham was subjected to 40. UEFA categorizes Level 1 comments as "the most harmful and legally prosecutable." These posts are immediately reported to platforms for removal, with racist remarks falling into this category.

Manchester City defender Manuel Akanji received 31 comments, ranking third, while Romelu Lukaku was targeted by 30 comments, placing him fourth.

Saka had previously suffered vile racist abuse after missing a penalty in the shootout against Italy in the Euro 2020 final.

Before Euro 2024, National Police Chiefs' Council football policing lead Mark Roberts said: "We became aware of the horrific abuse some Black players faced after Euro 2020. In response, we conducted investigations and successfully prosecuted some individuals.

“We are eager to communicate with the teams to ensure they understand our stance on this matter, that we take it seriously, and offer advice on how they can protect themselves.

"But it’s equally important to address the issue before incidents happen, rather than explaining afterward what we can do.

"We've explained the reporting procedures, and if we receive information through other channels, we will investigate as well."