Italian football club Hellas Verona has been given a one-match partial stadium closure following racist abuse aimed at Brescia striker Mario Balotelli.
Balotelli, born in Italy to Ghanaian parents, threatened to leave the pitch during his side's 2-1 loss, picking up the ball in the second half near the corner flag and kicking it towards the fans that were abusing him with monkey chants.
He was stopped by teammates and Verona players, who consoled the 29-year-old. The game did continue and Balotelli scored a stunning goal in the 85th minute.
Several players have been subjected to racist chants but there have not been serious consequences existing to contour the act.
The Italian newspapers and the many television broadcasts dominated one topic: the next racism incident in the Serie A. Balotelli commented on Instagram only and turned directly to the racists in the curve: "Shame on your children, women, Parents, relatives, friends and acquaintances. Shame!"
From numerous professionals such as the Boateng brothers, Sulley Muntari and other people from the football industry, the 29-year-old national player was well received. "Balotelli's reaction was important and must be supported," said Fabio Capello on Rai's state radio. "We talk a lot, but we need action, not words." Balotelli thanked Monday for the solidarity of colleagues and fans.
However, Verona is not likely to fear serious consequences - even though the incident is well documented. On Twitter, the monkey sounds in a record in the curve video can be heard clearly, also was located near the fan block an association official. "There were only about 15 people, and there was even occasional applause for Balotelli in the rest of the curve."