Juventus midfielder Blaise Matuidi racially abused during Serie A match

French midfielder Blaise Matuidi, who plays for Juventus, was a victim of racist insults on Saturday during a Serie A match against Cagliari in Sardinia. Matuidi requested intervention from the referee, but was ignored.

"Today, I suffered racism during the match. Weak people try to intimidate with hatred. I am not a person who hates and can only feel sorry for those who set a bad example," said Matuidi.

"Football is a way to spread equality, passion, and inspiration, and that's why I am here," said the 30-year-old player.

The incident occurred just before half-time when the French international confronted a Cagliari defender. He then turned angrily towards the Sardegna Arena stands, as seen in images from the Sky Sport channel.

He then approached the referee to ask for intervention. The referee did not react, while Matuidi's teammates Paulo Dybala and Mehdi Benatia calmed down and separated a very nervous Matuidi.

The former PSG player had previously been a victim of similar incidents during a match in late December against Verona. The club was later fined €20,000 ($24,000) for the racist chants by their fans.