CONCACAF Launches Investigation into Alleged Racial Slur by LAFCs Sergi Palencia
In a shocking incident during the CONCACAF Champions Cup match between Los Angeles FC (LAFC) and the Colorado Rapids on Tuesday night, a derogatory comment was allegedly made by LAFC defender Sergi Palencia towards Rapids player Chidozie Awaziem. The play was halted late in the second half after Awaziem was seen pleading with referee Pierre-Luc Lauzière, and both teams gathered to discuss the situation. After the final whistle, Awaziem approached Palencia and claimed he was the target of a "derogatory term" aimed at him. Rapids head coach Chris Armas explained that his player was "pretty clear and upset" about what was said and that the club fully supports him in an investigation into the incident. LAFC's head coach Steve Cherundolo confirmed to reporters that Awaziem claimed he heard a word "that bothered him," but he was unsure of the exact words used. He added that the referees will write a report, and they will figure out the details from there. In response to the incident, CONCACAF, the North and Central American soccer governing body, released a statement saying that it has opened an investigation into the matter. The investigation will involve a thorough review of the match officials' reports, available match footage, and the respective positions of both clubs. The Colorado Rapids released a statement supporting CONCACAF's investigation, stating that they do not tolerate any form of abuse and stand with their players following these very serious allegations. LAFC also released a statement, acknowledging the reported incident and cooperating fully with the ongoing CONCACAF investigation. LAFC is a club for all and stands against hate in any form. Despite the controversy, LAFC won the match 1-0 to finish with a 2-2 draw in the home-and-home series and advanced to the Round of 16 based on the away goal tiebreaker. LAFC will next face the Columbus Crew in the competition with the first leg taking place on March 4 at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles.
