Dele Alli has been charged by the Football Association over a post on social media about coronavirus. Though he posted an apology video, the star is on the verge of facing further punishment.
Earlier in the month, Alli controversially posted a video of him wearing a mask over his face on Snapchat with the message “Corona whatttt, please listen with volume.”
He then proceeded to pan the camera to an Asian man, something which has been widely condemned amid the Coronavirus that has claimed many lives.
On realizing his mistake, the star deleted the video and issued an apology statement. He said, “Hi guys, it’s Dele. I just wanted to apologize on my behalf for the video I posted on Snapchat yesterday. It wasn’t funny and I realized that immediately and took it down.”
“I let myself and the club down. I don’t want you guys to have that impression of because it wasn’t funny. I’m sending all of my love, thoughts and prayers to everyone in China.”
Despite the apology, the Tottenham’s star is in hot water with the Football Association. FA immediately began investigating the controversial video with a view of a potential disrepute charge. Disciplinary chiefs wrote to Alli to seek his observations on the post.
On Wednesday evening, it was confirmed that Alli has indeed been charged. A statement on the FA Official website read, “Dele Alli has been charged with misconduct for a breach of FA Rule E3 in relation to a social media post.”
“It is alleged that the Tottenham Hotspur midfielder’s post breaches FA Rule E3(1) as it was insulting and/or improper and/or brought the game into disrepute.”
“It is further alleged that the post constitutes an “Aggravated Breach,” which is defined in FA Rule E3(2), as it included a reference, whether express or implied, to race and/or color and/or ethnic origin and/or nationality.”
What next?
The midfielder has over a week to respond.
“He has until Thursday 5th March 2020 to provide a response.” The statement continues.