Lazio midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru has become the latest victim of racial abuse in football, enduring vile chants during Lazio’s 1-0 win over Lecce in Serie A.
Despite not featuring in the game, the Nigerian midfielder faced appalling behavior from a section of Lecce fans at the Stadio Via del Mare.
Composed Response Amid Hostility
The incident unfolded during the post-match celebrations as Dele-Bashiru joined his teammates on the pitch.
Targeted with offensive chants, including “Raus,” a term with troubling historical implications, Dele-Bashiru maintained remarkable composure.
Instead of reacting in anger, the 23-year-old confronted the abuse with subtle defiance—celebrating with his teammates while holding eye contact with the offenders, sending a powerful message of resilience.
OOOOOOH DELE BASHIRU pic.twitter.com/UHB2Dk6cIT
— Poltrone e Sofà (@notPatriota) December 22, 2024
Lazio goalkeeper Ivan Provedel demonstrated solidarity by stepping in to support Dele-Bashiru, escorting him off the pitch as the abuse intensified.
Videos of the incident, shared widely on social media, highlighted the disgraceful actions of the Lecce supporters while drawing widespread praise for Dele-Bashiru’s dignified response.
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Flourishing Career at Lazio
Off the pitch, Dele-Bashiru continues to impress for Lazio. Since joining the club on loan from Turkey’s Hatayspor in the summer, the Super Eagles star has become an integral part of the team.
He scored his first Serie A goal in November, coming off the bench to seal a 3-0 victory over Bologna.
In the Europa League, Dele-Bashiru has been even more influential, contributing two goals and two assists in just four appearances
