Marco Curto has been slammed with a hefty ban by FIFA after being found guilty of racially abusing Wolves star Hwang Hee-chan in a pre-season friendly.
In July 2024, Wolves traded tackles with the Italian side in Marbella, with the match being marred by discriminatory behavior from Curto.
Following the game which was halted at 1-0 with Wolverhampton Wanderers leading, the English side had sought the guidance of the FA over submitting a formal complaint to the appropriate authorities over the abuse.
Reports indicate that UEFA was unable to act given it was an unofficial game outside their jurisdiction, while the South Korean federation contacted FIFA to voice out their concerns.
Como Release Statement Over Incident Involving Marco Curto And Hwang Hee-chan
The incident generated massive reactions and Como published a statement in July 2024 that appeared to suggest Wolves had attached undue importance to the alleged incident.
Cesc Fabregas’ side however admitted that one of their players had called Hwang “Jackie Chan”.
Como via Mirwan Suwarso, a representative of the club’s owners, pointed out that they firmly against racism and they condemn it in the “strongest possible way”.
They wrote: “Our club does not tolerate racism and condemns all forms of it in the strongest possible way.
“We spoke to the defender in question to understand what was said. He has told us the comment he made, to his co-defender, was “ignore him, he thinks he’s Jackie Chan.
“Having spoken to our player at length, we are confident this was in reference to the player’s name, and to the constant references of “Channy” made by his own team-mates on the pitch.”
They also indicated their confidence that their “player did not say anything in a derogatory manner.”
Como added that they are disappointed the reaction of some Wolves players resulted in the incident being “blown out of proportion”.
They shared: “We are disappointed that the reaction of certain Wolves players has seen the incident blown out of proportion.”
FIFA Slam Italian Defender Marco Curto With 10-match Ban
Despite Como’s stance, FIFA have opted to punish Marco Curto for his assertions, handing him a 10-match ban, with five of those suspended for two years.
According to the Daily Mail, Curto’s suspension was revealed by a spokesperson of FIFA.
The FIFA Spokesperson said: “The player Marco Curto was found responsible for discriminatory behaviour and sanctioned with a 10-match suspension.
“Serving of half of those matches is suspended for a probation period of two years, and the player is ordered to render community services and undergo training and education with an organisation approved by FIFA.”
Wolves Director Of Football Operations And Administration Thanks The FA For Their Support
Wolves’ director of football operations and administration Matt Wild appreciated the Football Association for their support during the process.
He said: “We welcome Fifa’s decision to sanction Marco Curto following the discriminatory incident during our pre-season friendly against Como 1907.
“The suspension issued to the player sends a clear message that racism and discriminatory behaviour will not be tolerated in football or society.”
Wild also insisted the position of Wolverhampton Wanderers against racism and discrimination in any manner.
Matt Wild added: “Wolves will always stand firmly against racism and discrimination in any form, and we remain fully committed to creating an environment where everyone feels respected and included.”
The friendly came to an unceremonious conclusion following the occurrence, as Daniel Podence of Wolves was dismissed in the brawl that followed.
Hwang Hee-chan
Hwang Hee-chan has had a quiet start to the season with the West Midlands-based club, scoring no goals and providing no assists in 8 appearances across all competitions this season.
Wolverhampton Wanderers remain winless after 7 matches in the Premier League this season, losing 6 games and drawing 1.
In 9 matches across all competitions this campaign, they have won just 1, while losing 7 and drawing 1.
Interestingly, their only victory came against Burnley in the 2nd round of the Carabao Cup, a competition where they have been eliminated after they lost 3-2 to Brighton in the 3rd round.
Who Is Marco Curto?
Marco Curto is an Italian professional footballer, who was born on January 5, 1999, and he plays as a centre back for Serie B club Cesena, on loan from Como.
Clubs Marco Curto Has Represented In His Career?
Marco Curto has represented clubs like; Südtirol, Empoli, Reggina and Virtus Verona.
Marco Curto’s Market Value?
His market value is €1.8 million according to Transfermkt.
Marco Curto Career Stats?
Marco Curto has made 166 club appearances thus far in his, scoring 4 goals and providing 6 assists in all competitions.
