Hull City Condemns Racist Abuse Aimed at Robinio Vaz

Hull City have condemned what they called “abhorrent racist abuse” directed at new signing Robinio Vaz after announcing his arrival on social media.

The club confirmed that the unveiling post, published on Tuesday to welcome the 19-year-old French striker on a season-long loan from Roma, was removed after it became the target of racist messages.

In a strongly worded statement, Hull said they are working with Humberside Police and football authorities to track down those responsible.

“Hull City has a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of discrimination,” the club said, adding that they are liaising with the Premier League, anti-discrimination charity Kick It Out and the relevant social media companies. “We are working to identify the accounts responsible for this disgusting abuse.”

The club stressed that Vaz, who scored once in Serie A last season, will not face this alone.

“No individual should ever experience discriminatory abuse, and the club will provide Robinio with our full support,” the statement continued. “We stand with Robinio and encourage all supporters to continue to report any form of discrimination.”

Vaz’s move from Roma includes an option to buy at the end of the season, a deal designed to give Hull a long-term stake in a player they clearly believe in.

The hope now is that the conversation around the teenager quickly shifts from the hatred he has had to endure to the impact he can make on the pitch.