Wigan Warriors have expressed their profound dismay after racist abuse was directed at player Junior Nsemba on social media, following their narrow victory over St Helens at Magic Weekend in Liverpool.
The Betfred Super League club has confirmed it has reported the offensive comments to both the Rugby Football League and the police for investigation.
In a strong statement, Wigan declared: “The club is aware of racist remarks made on social media about one of our players. We are appalled by the comments and condemn them in the strongest possible terms.
“No individual should be subjected to racist abuse, whether online, in person or in any other setting. Racism must be called out, condemned and eradicated. We will report such matters through the appropriate channels and will work with the relevant authorities, the Rugby Football League and social media platforms to ensure they are investigated and dealt with properly.”
The incident occurred after Wigan secured a tempestuous two-point win against their long-standing rivals, a match decided when Saints’ Jackson Hastings missed a crucial kick to level the score after the final hooter.
Speaking at his weekly press conference, Wigan head coach Matt Peet condemned the perpetrators.
“It’s not something we’re about. Those people who are doing that, hiding behind phones and keyboards, our club is open, and if any of them want to come and speak to any of us or Junior, we’re all willing to have a conversation, but our sport is too good for that.
“We need to take care of this and make sure it just doesn’t get brushed under the carpet, which I’m sure it won’t.”
Wigan currently sit second in the Super League table, four points adrift of leaders Leeds Rhinos. They are level with Warrington Wolves and Wakefield Trinity after winning 12 of their opening 17 matches this season.
Wigan are due to return to action against Warrington on Friday before taking on bottom side Huddersfield Giants the following week. They will then face St Helens for the second time this month on 24 July as they look to close the gap to Leeds at the top of the table.
