A 47-year-old man from Liverpool has been banned from all UK football stadiums after being arrested for racially abusing Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo during a Premier League match. The incident at Anfield prompted swift police action and widespread condemnation from football authorities.
The alleged abuse occurred during Bournemouth’s match against Liverpool on Friday, August 16, 2025. Ghanaian international Antoine Semenyo reported racial abuse to referee Paul Tierney in the 29th minute, causing a temporary stoppage in play. The match resumed after a four-minute delay, with Semenyo later scoring twice despite Bournemouth’s 4-2 loss.
Merseyside Police arrested the suspect on Saturday and released him on conditional bail on Monday. The bail terms include a comprehensive ban from attending any regulated football match in the UK and a prohibition against going within one mile of any football stadium. Police confirmed the investigation remains ongoing with cooperation from Liverpool Football Club.
Semenyo responded to the incident on social media, stating the night would stay with him forever ‘because of how the entire football family stood together.’ He specifically thanked teammates, Liverpool players, fans, and Premier League officials for their professional handling of the situation. The 25-year-old forward joined Bournemouth from Bristol City in 2023.
Football authorities united in condemnation, with the Premier League launching its own investigation. The Football Association emphasized that ‘incidents of this nature have no place in our game,’ pledging to work with relevant authorities to ensure appropriate action. The case highlights ongoing concerns about racism in football despite recent anti-discrimination campaigns.
The stadium ban represents one of the most stringent bail conditions imposed for a football-related offense. This approach signals authorities’ commitment to preventing repeat offenses and protecting players from abuse. The case has drawn national attention amid heightened focus on discrimination in sports.
Looking ahead, the suspect will appear in court later this year as part of his bail conditions. Merseyside Police continue to investigate the incident and may pursue additional charges. Football authorities will review stadium security protocols while anti-racism organizations have called for stronger measures against discriminatory behavior at matches.