Sunderland AFC has condemned racist abuse directed at striker Brian Brobbey following the club’s 1-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday, 12 April 2026. The club has reported the offensive social media comments to Northumbria Police, the Premier League, and the relevant social media platforms.
The incident occurred after a match that saw Brobbey involved in a second-half challenge that resulted in an injury to Tottenham defender Cristian Romero. Following the match, Brobbey was targeted with discriminatory abuse online. Northumbria Police have confirmed they are currently investigating the matter.
This event marks the third time a Sunderland player has been targeted by racist abuse in the last three months. Similar incidents occurred involving winger Romaine Mundle in February and defender Lutsharel Geertruida in March. In the case of the abuse directed at Geertruida, a 45-year-old man from the Gateshead area was later arrested.
In response to the growing issue, the Premier League has stated it will provide full support to Brobbey. The organisation warned that individuals identified and found guilty of such discrimination will face serious consequences, which may include criminal records, football banning orders, and custodial sentences.
According to the anti-discrimination group Kick It Out, reports of online abuse within football have reached record levels, increasing by a third compared to the previous season. The UK Football Policing Unit has also noted a 115% increase in the number of abuse reports being filed.
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