Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger says talk of boycotting the 2018 World Cup in Russia in protest at racism among the country’s fans is premature.
Manchester City midfielder Yaya Toure has suggested black players could take action, after claiming he was abused during Wednesday’s game at CSKA Moscow.
“You have to fight racism, in Russia or wherever in the world,” said Wenger.
“To go as extreme as suggested (a boycott), it’s a bit early to do that because it’s not proven what happened.”
The Frenchman added: “You cannot tolerate racism. But I believe Russia itself has to fight against it.”
Uefa is investigating Toure’s complaint that he was subjected to racist abuse by some CSKA supporters during the 2-1 Champions League win in Moscow. The Russian club denies any racist chanting took place.
And on Friday, the governing body’s president, Michel Platini, ordered an internal investigation into why proper protocol was not followed in the handling of the incident.
Platini’s statement comes a day after Kick It Out chairman Lord Ouseley said that the match referee Ovidiu Hategan should not officiate again for failing to deal with the alleged abuse.
Meanwhile, former Manchester City chief executive Garry Cook has said Toure’s comments might have been made in the “heat of the moment”.
“Yaya Toure is the talent, engaging in the game, and he’s creating a lot of fans and a lot of enjoyment,” he said.
“I think we tend to make rash decisions in the heat of the moment.
“The game itself needs to collaborate and support and make sure we have a clear strategy and policy against racism.
“There is a lot more consideration to be given to the issue, but the governing body need to have a very strong stand and make their point well.”
BBC SPORT
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