The Belgian forward was sent off for his “shh” celebration to the home crowd in the first leg, following a series of abhorrent racist insults and gestures. Despite condemnation for such acts across Italian football, Lukaku’s ban was almost inexplicably upheld after Inter’s appeal was rejected on Friday. Now, following significant backlash, the Italian federation (FIGC) have decided to reverse their decision.
In reality, the decision comes after some justifiably vehement backlash. Opposition was strong when the suspension was first handed down, but grew significantly when Inter’s appeal for Lukaku was rejected while Juventus’ – whose fans were responsible for the vile racist gestures – was granted. The Turin side saw their punishment of temporary stadium closures postponed until after Sunday’s league match against Napoli.
With just one non-penalty goal to his name since re-joining on loan from Chelsea in the summer, Lukaku’s inclusion may not benefit Inter significantly in the semi-final. But the message it sends is undoubtedly an important one, as Italian football continues to claw its way out of a tarnished history of racist abuse in its stadiums.
