Inter have condemned the fans who racially abused Napoli defender Kalidou Koulibaly – “since 1908, Inter has represented integration, innovation and progressiveness”.
The Nerazzurri were actually founded after a split from Milan, who wanted to have only Italian and Swiss players.
That is the origin of their full name, Internazionale, with their founding document describing them as “brothers of the world”.
Inter have condemned the fans who racially abused Napoli defender Kalidou Koulibaly – “since 1908, Inter has represented integration, innovation and progressiveness”.
The Nerazzurri were actually founded after a split from Milan, who wanted to have only Italian and Swiss players.
That is the origin of their full name, Internazionale, with their founding document describing them as “brothers of the world”.
Last night though Koulibaly was subjected to repeated racist abuse from the stands, for which the club has been punished with a two game stadium ban, and an extra ban for the Curva Nord.
“In response to the events that took place during Inter vs. Napoli on Wednesday evening and the consequent decision reached by the Lega Nazionale's Sports Court for Serie A, the Club would like to reaffirm that since 9 March 1908, Inter has represented integration, hospitality and progressiveness,” the Beneamata wrote on their official website, with a shorter version on Twitter.
“These characteristics have defined the history of Milan – a city that stands for inclusion and respect.
"Together with our city, we have always been fighting to help create a future free of discrimination. We are committed to promoting these values wherever we operate and they have always been a source of pride for the Club.
“Inter is present in 29 countries across the world, from Cambodia to Colombia, working with thousands of children involved in the Inter Campus project. The aim is to restore the right to play for those who are often in precarious circumstances – the importance of such activities has also been recognised by the United Nations.
"From that night 110 years ago when our founders set us on our journey, we have always said no to any form of discrimination.
"That is why we feel obliged today, once again, to reiterate that anyone who does not understand or accept our history – this Club’s history – is not one of us."
Since 1908, Inter has represented integration, innovation and progressiveness. The history of Milan is a welcoming one and together we are fighting to build a future without discrimination. Those who do not understand this history do not stand with us. #BrothersOfTheWorld #FCIM pic.twitter.com/lUok3qDgno
— Inter (@Inter_en) December 27, 2018