Mario Balotelli, striker for Manchester City and the Italian national team, has issued a threat to anyone who racially abuses him during next month’s Euro 2012 in Poland and Ukraine, stating he might resort to violence.
He recounted an incident from June 2009, where he had bananas hurled at him in a bar in Rome prior to the European Under-21 Championships, declaring, “If it happens again, I will go to jail, because I will kill them,” Balotelli remarked.
At just 21 years old, he described himself as a “genius” during the same discussion and mentioned he would exit the pitch if subjected to racial insults in a match.
“I completely reject racism. It’s entirely unacceptable,” he stated.
These remarks followed a warning from former England player Sol Campbell, who advised fans to avoid attending Euro 2012, suggesting “you could end up coming back in a coffin,” highlighting concerns over racism and violence.
Balotelli has faced racial abuse both on the field and off, notably during a match while playing for Inter Milan against Juventus, a situation that led to the latter having to play a game without spectators.
“I remember vividly the Juventus match, and I managed to score a goal,” Balotelli recalled.
“I had to act as if I hadn’t witnessed or heard anything. My desire was to play. Being young, it was my responsibility to inform the referee, but had I stopped the game, I wouldn’t have netted that goal.
“Sometimes, your talent is so exceptional that it drives others to resort to angering you through any means necessary.”
Born in Italy, the controversial striker expressed pride in his heritage.
“I’m black and proud of my African roots. I consider myself fortunate to be black. People make judgments about me, labeling me a black boy who enjoys life, makes money, and has girls. It’s not that simple. It’s far too easy to judge individuals based on superficial observations.”
by Buford Balony
