“Ignore him, he thinks he’s Jackie Chan” - Como release statement on what was told during alleged racism incident involving Wolves’ Hwang Hee-chan
Como 1907 have issued a public statement on X, explaining what transpired during an alleged racism incident against Wolverhampton Wanderers' Hwang Hee-chan. While the Serie A outfit condemned all forms of racism, they were quick to defend the defender in question.
Wolves faced Cesc Fabregas' Como earlier this week in a friendly behind closed doors in Marbella, Spain. While the Premier League club won 1-0, the game was overshadowed by Daniel Podence's sending-off in the second half.
Hwang Hee-chan was allegedly racially abused by a Como defender, leading to a clash between both sides. In addition, Podence threw a punch during the scuffle, leading to him receiving his marching orders.
However, Como's official representative Mirwan Suwarzo released a statement the next day on Tuesday, explaining what happened:
"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."
They added:
"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. As far as our club is concerned our player did not say anything in a derogatory manner. We are disappointed that the reaction of certain Wolves players has seen the incident blown out of proportion."
Wolves claimed they would report the incident to UEFA, however, the latter have issued a statement, claiming their fixture did not fall under their jurisdiction.
Wolves forward Hwang Hee-chan breaks silence after allegedly being racially abused
Wolves star Hwang Hee-chan has given his verdict on Instagram after he was allegedly racially abused by one of Como's players. The 28-year-old criticized racial discrimination, before thanking his well-wishers and teammates for their support.
Following the incident, Hwang Hee-chan had the option of walking off the field alongside his teammates. However, the South Korea international bravely opted to continue playing.
In his post, he wrote (via SPORTbible):
"Racism is intolerable in sports and in all aspects of life. After the incident, the coaching staff and my teammates immediately told me that they would leave the field with me if needed, and they kept checking on my wellbeing."
"I am very grateful to my teammates once again. Despite of all this, I wanted to carry on and we did what we had to do on the pitch! Lastly Thank you to everyone who sent supportive messages. There is no room for Racism."
Hwang Hee-chan has represented Wolves for three seasons, scoring 22 goals and providing seven assists in 94 appearances across all competitions. He is expected to feature in their first official game of the 2024-25 PL season against Arsenal on August 17.