90min

UEFA Launch Investigation After Fourth Official Accused of Racism in Istanbul Basaksehir - PSG Game

By Matt O'Connor-Simpson

Both teams left the field of play after the incident
Both teams left the field of play after the incident / Xavier Laine/Getty Images
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UEFA has started an investigation after a match official was accused of using racist language during a Champions League match between Istanbul Basaksehir and Paris Saint-Germain.

The incident took place around 15 minutes into the game with Basaksehir alleging that Romanian fourth official Sebastian Coltescu made a racist comment towards their assistant coach, Pierre Webo.

Webo was involved in a verbal touchline altercation beforehand and was shown a red card. After this, he accused the official of using the term. Following heated discussions between all parties, the away side walked off down the tunnel in protest and were joined soon after by PSG.

Webo was sent off just before the alleged incident
Webo was sent off just before the alleged incident / Xavier Laine/Getty Images

The game had been expected to resume after a delay of around 45 minutes but after Basaksehir refused to emerge from their dressing room, it was announced the game would be rescheduled for Wednesday evening.

On Wednesday, UEFA confirmed that they were investigating what had happened.

"An ethics and disciplinary inspector has been appointed to conduct a disciplinary investigation regarding the incident and the events that led to the Uefa Champions League group match Paris St-Germain v İstanbul Basaksehir being abandoned," a statement read (via BBC Sport).

The game was goalless when proceedings were halted
The game was goalless when proceedings were halted / Xavier Laine/Getty Images

They went on to confirm that Webo's caution had been "frozen" while they get to the bottom of what happened.

The game was goalless when play was halted and UEFA have stipulated that the starting XIs must remain the same when the game is replayed. After RB Leipzig defeated Manchester United 3-2 last night, PSG are in need of a win if they are to top Group H, while Basaksehir are only playing for pride.

Although the Parisians could finish level on points with United if they lose, they are guaranteed to finish at least second thanks to their superior head to head record.