HK investigates racism against PH at a football friendly

PH Azkals. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

HONG KONG — Hong Kong football authorities are investigating reports of racist abuse during a home friendly against the Philippines this week.

The South China Morning Post reported on Wednesday that Hong Kong fans at Tuesday’s game called their Filipino counterparts “slaves,” threw bottles at them and booed the Philippine national anthem. The Philippines won 1-0.

Hong Kong Football Association spokesman Benny Chan said it will release an official report to the public and FIFA after it completes its investigation.

Philippine football officials said they were waiting for a report from their team before deciding whether to complain to FIFA.

The incident comes as FIFA decided last week to treat racist abuse more seriously by toughening up punishments.