Chippa United Terminate Eymael’s Appointment Over Alleged Racism in Tanzania

South African club Chippa United have terminated the appointment of Belgian coach Luc Eymael after just two days due to uproar surrounding an alleged racism incident in July 2020 when he was managing in Tanzania with Yanga.

Chippa United had earlier tried to appoint Eymael in December 2020 but opted against it due to the media allegations of racism which was fuelled by a statement by South Africa Football Association (SAFA)

“It must be stated that the decision to withdraw the appointment of Eymael, was not based on any concrete evidence or legal position regarding the claims against Eymael, but was rather informed by the club’s sensitivity to the gravity of the accusations against Eymael, the public outcry and to also allow the matter to be fully investigated,” a club statement reads.

Chippa United FC in January 2021 inquired from the Ethics Committee of FIFA if there’s any case or any ban on Eymael but received nothing from FIFA confirming any ban and/or pending proceedings against Eymael.

Following the departure of Coach Dan Malesela, Chippa went ahead to employ Eymael after confirming there is no legal basis to prevent his appointment but after further uproar, the club has revised its decision on Eymael’s appointment.

“Chippa have decided not to continue with Eymael’s appointment, who will proceed to return to Belgium,” the club said in its statement. “It is clear that Eymael himself requires further time to clear his name.

“He has reassured the club that he will, in his own capacity take legal action concerning his rights, including the dissemination of the offending media clip through his own lawyers.”

The club is also seeking legal advice on their next action for the reputational and financial damages caused to the club as a result of the allegations especially against South African journalist Robert Marawa for “unsubstantiated, unethical and prejudicial” words uttered and media circulated on South African radios and TVs.

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