Mario Balotelli booked after complaining about alleged racist chants

Striker Mario Balotelli was booked for protesting to the referee about alleged racist chants during Nice's defeat at Dijon last night.

Mario Balotelli booked after complaining about alleged racist chants

Striker Mario Balotelli was booked for protesting to the referee about alleged racist chants during Nice's defeat at Dijon last night.

The former Manchester City, Liverpool and Italy striker was shown a yellow card by referee Nicolas Rainville in the second half after complaining about the home fans following a missed opportunity.

Balotelli was seen gesturing to the crowd while talking to Rainville in the 72nd minute, but was cautioned for his actions.

Nice tweeted a picture of Rainville booking Balotelli with the caption: "In the meantime, Mario Balotelli has inherited a yellow card, after... getting annoyed with racist insults from the public."

Nice were 2-1 ahead at the time before conceding two late goals, including a controversial penalty, to lose 3-2, dropping them to eighth in the Ligue 1 table.

Nice president Jean-Pierre Rivere hit out at the standard of refereeing, telling the club's official website: "I am scandalised.

"It's been four consecutive games that we have the feeling of playing at 11 against 12. The differences of refereeing from one match to the other are incomprehensible."

- PA

more courts articles

Former DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson arrives at court to face sex charges Former DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson arrives at court to face sex charges
Case against Jeffrey Donaldson to be heard in court Case against Jeffrey Donaldson to be heard in court
Defendant in Cobh murder case further remanded in custody Defendant in Cobh murder case further remanded in custody

More in this section

Mauricio Pochettino file photo I enjoy it – Mauricio Pochettino happy with life at Chelsea despite poor results
Leicester City File Photo Leicester seal Premier League return as Leeds are beaten
Arne Slot File Photos Liverpool reach verbal agreement with Arne Slot to take over as manager
Sport Push Notifications

By clicking on 'Sign Up' you will be the first to know about our latest and best sporting content on this browser.

Sign Up
Sport
Newsletter

Latest news from the world of sport, along with the best in opinion from our outstanding team of sports writers

Sign up
Cookie Policy Privacy Policy Brand Safety FAQ Help Contact Us Terms and Conditions

© Examiner Echo Group Limited