During the Premier League match between Liverpool and Bournemouth at Anfield on August 15, 2025, the game was briefly stopped in the 28th minute after Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo reported being subjected to racist abuse from a spectator.
Referee Anthony Taylor immediately responded to the complaint by speaking with Semenyo at a Liverpool corner, then consulting with both team managers, Liverpool’s Arne Slot and Bournemouth’s Andoni Iraola, as well as the team captains before play resumed approximately two minutes later.
The Premier League confirmed that Semenyo’s report was the reason for the suspension of play. The incident is set to be fully investigated by the authorities, with the league reaffirming its stance that racism has no place in football. Both clubs and the player received full support following the incident.
This event highlights ongoing issues with racial abuse in football and the importance of prompt action to address such behavior during matches. The Premier League continues its commitment to tackling racism robustly in the sport.