Suriname football players targeted by racism in Guatemala match

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has condemned the racism directed at Surinamese players during a match against Guatemala, describing the behavior as ‘completely unacceptable’. The incident escalated following a late winning goal by Guatemala, leading to verbal abuse from fans and physical altercations between players and spectators.

Surinamese player Richonell Margaret received a red card after reacting to the racial abuse. Brian Tevreden, General Director of the Surinamese football association, and head coach Henk Fraser have also spoken out against the treatment of the squad.

FC Groningen goalkeeper Vaessen, who was present during the incident, noted that while players initially agreed to avoid the crowd after the match, the situation deteriorated when Guatemalan players approached the fans. Vaessen stated he stood up for his teammates, describing the impulse to defend against injustice as ‘very human’. Commentators and football experts are now calling for stricter disciplinary measures, such as automatic point deductions or playing matches behind closed doors, to combat structural racism in the sport.