Schalke 04 midfielder Christopher Antwi-Adjei was subjected to racist abuse during his side’s DFB-Pokal first-round tie against FC Lokomotive Leipzig on Sunday, August 17, 2025.
The incident occurred in the 13th minute when the Ghanaian international went to the touchline to take a throw-in. At that moment, offensive words were directed at him from a section of the home supporters — language that has no place in football or society.
After Antwi-Adjei raised the issue with the referee, play was halted so that the stadium announcer could address the situation. However, rather than condemning the incident, sections of the home crowd reacted by booing the Schalke midfielder every time he touched the ball until the final whistle — a response described as “disappointing and incomprehensible” by many observers.
Following the match, Antwi-Adjei filed a report with the police, who have since opened an investigation to identify the perpetrator.
Speaking afterwards, the 30-year-old expressed his dismay at the incident:
“It’s very disappointing to have to experience something like this in this day and age. It’s not acceptable. I hope this person reflects on their actions.”
The episode has drawn widespread condemnation, with Schalke officials reaffirming their support for Antwi-Adjei and insisting that strong measures must be taken to combat racism in football.
