FIF condemns racist abuse directed at Nicolas Pépé | OneFootball

Racist insults against Pépé: FIF breaks its silence

Nicolas Pépé / @x.com

The Ivorian Football Federation (FIF) has issued a statement in recent hours, denouncing the discriminatory and racist attacks targeting Ivorian winger Nicolas Pépé, Villarreal CF player and international for the "Elephants."

In its official message, the Federation expressed full support for the player, who has been subjected to a wave of insults and racist comments referencing his skin color and African heritage.

This controversy follows comments made by Nicolas Pépé during an interview with French content creator "Riyad."

The Ivorian international discussed the Moroccan national team in a manner deemed offensive by some fans, especially when he mentioned Morocco's absence from continental podiums. These remarks sparked a strong response from Moroccan supporters, who found them disrespectful.

Racist insults against Pépé: FIF breaks its silence

In its statement, the Ivorian Federation declared:

"The President of the Ivorian Football Federation, Yacine Idriss Diallo, and his Executive Committee condemn in the strongest terms the harassment and racist insults suffered by Ivorian international Nicolas Pépé on social media."

It added: "Nicolas Pépé has apologized for the misunderstanding related to a joke, and the FIF welcomes this gesture of reconciliation. However, no misunderstanding can justify the hateful remarks spread online."

And concluded: "The Ivorian Football Federation reminds everyone that mutual respect, brotherhood, and solidarity among peoples remain essential values of African football. On the eve of AFCON 2025, hosted by Morocco—a nation known for its hospitality—the FIF reaffirms its commitment to promoting football based on respect, unity, and the fight against all forms of discrimination."

It should be noted that the former OGC Nice player has been left out of the Elephants' squad for AFCON 2025 as a sanction following his ironic comments about the Atlas Lions.