Udinese have formally called on Italian football authorities to investigate after English striker Keinan Davis alleged he was subjected to racist abuse during Saturday's 2-0 Serie A win at Cagliari. The incident, which occurred in the closing stages of the match, has ignited a fresh dispute over racism in Italian football.
Davis, 28, who joined Udinese from Aston Villa in 2023, took to social media after the game to accuse Cagliari defender Alberto Dossena of making racist remarks. "I hope Serie A takes action," Davis wrote, detailing the alleged abuse during a physical confrontation with several opponents.
Udinese immediately issued a statement offering their "full support" to the forward, describing the verbal abuse as "disgraceful" and "despicable." The club added, "Udinese Calcio hopes that the sports justice bodies, in whom we have the utmost confidence, will deal with the matter swiftly."
Cagliari, however, responded by condemning all forms of discrimination but expressing surprise at the allegations. "We are surprised and deeply disappointed by the claims," the club said in a statement, denying that any racist language had been used by their players.
The incident is the latest in a series of racism controversies in Serie A. While the league has implemented anti-racism protocols, including stadium bans and fines, critics argue enforcement remains inconsistent. If the allegations are proven, Dossena could face a lengthy suspension under Italy's zero-tolerance rules.
Davis, who has enjoyed a productive season with 10 goals in 26 Serie A appearances, has previously played on loan at Nottingham Forest and Watford. His form has been crucial for Udinese, who sit mid-table in the Italian top flight.
The match itself saw Udinese secure a 2-0 victory, but the result has been overshadowed by the controversy. Davis was involved in a heated exchange with several Cagliari players in the final minutes, which reportedly prompted his social media outburst.
Italian football authorities have yet to announce an investigation, but Udinese's public demand for action puts pressure on the league to respond quickly. The case could set a precedent for how future racial abuse allegations are handled in Serie A.
Both clubs have now issued statements, leaving the ball in the court of the sports justice bodies. For Davis and Udinese, the priority is clear: accountability and a message that racist abuse has no place in football.
Based on reporting from BBC Sport.
