Bayern Munich condemn racist abuse aimed at Dayot Upamecano after Lazio loss

Bayern Munich have condemned the "hateful" racial abuse aimed at defender Dayot Upamecano after their 1-0 away defeat to Lazio in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie on Wednesday.

Following a goalless first half, Upamecano was at the centre of drama that unfolded midway through the second period as he was shown a straight red card for a stood-showing challenge on the ankle of Gustav Isaksen inside the penalty area.

Ciro Immobile converted the resulting spot kick and Bayern were unable to respond, falling to a slender defeat after failing to register any of their 17 shots on target at Stadio Olimpico.

Shortly after the full-time whistle blew, Bayern addressed the racist abuse Upamecano received on social media following the defender's dismissal.

A statement on 'X' read: "FC Bayern strongly condemn the racist comments being directed towards Dayot Upamecano on social media. Anyone who comments hateful words such as these is no fan of our club. We're all behind you, Upa!"

FC Bayern strongly condemn the racist comments being directed towards Dayot Upamecano on social media. Anyone who comments hateful words such as these is no fan of our club. We're all behind you, Upa!

— FC Bayern Munich (@FCBayernEN" >@FCBayernEN) February 14, 2024

This is the second time that Bayern have had to release a statement condemning racist abuse towards Upamecano, who was also targeted online after a Champions League defeat at Manchester City in April last year.

Kingsley Coman and Mathys Tel are two other Bayern players who have also been the subjects of racist abuse over the last 12 months.

Upamecano joined Bayern in the summer of 2021 and has since established himself as a first-team regular at the Allianz Arena, making 105