Marco Curto Receives 10-Match Ban for Racist Abuse of Hwang Hee-chan

Como defender Marco Curto has been handed a 10-match suspension, with five matches suspended, by FIFA for racially abusing Wolves forward Hwang Hee-chan during a pre-season friendly in July. The incident took place in Marbella during the second half of the match, with tensions escalating after Wolves’ Daniel Podence was sent off for a retaliatory punch.

Wolves initially reported the incident to the Italian Football Association and UEFA, but UEFA stated they could not intervene as it was not a UEFA-organized match. However, the Korean Football Association, with Hwang being a South Korean international, brought the issue to FIFA, which led to the disciplinary action.

A FIFA spokesperson confirmed, “The player Marco Curto was found responsible for discriminatory behaviour and sanctioned with a 10-match suspension. Half of those matches are suspended for a probation period of two years, and the player is ordered to complete community service and undergo training and education with an organisation approved by FIFA.”

Wolves’ director of football operations, Matt Wild, expressed gratitude for the support from the Football Association, emphasizing the importance of the decision. “The suspension sends a clear message that racism and discriminatory behaviour will not be tolerated in football or society,” Wild stated, reaffirming Wolves’ commitment to fighting against all forms of discrimination.