Points Deductions, Not Just Fines – Rooney on Racism in Football
Former England and Manchester United legend, Wayne Rooney, has called for tougher penalties — including points deductions and heavy fines — against clubs whose fans or players are found guilty of racism.
Rooney made the remarks while recalling a painful moment during his managerial stint at DC United in Major League Soccer (MLS). He narrated how a player broke down in tears in his arms after being subjected to racial abuse on the pitch.
According to Rooney, the only way to truly discourage racism in football is to hit clubs where it hurts most — on the league table and financially. He argued that fines alone are not enough, stressing that deducting points would force clubs and fans to take accountability more seriously.
The former striker’s comments add to the growing global calls for stronger action against racism in football, especially in the English Premier League (EPL), where incidents of abuse remain a pressing concern.
