Qala Saints President And Nadur Youngsters Staff Member Suspended For One Year Over Racial Comments

The President of Qala Saints, Noel Mizzi, and Nadur Youngsters’ coaching staff member Paul Azzopardi have both been handed one-year suspensions by the Disciplinary Commissioner of the Gozo Football Association. This follows an incident that took place last Sunday during the match between the two sides, which was won 1-0 by Nadur Youngsters.

The incident began in the 73rd minute when Nadur Youngsters’ Joseph Xerri was sent off by referee Fyodor Zammit for a foul in the middle of the pitch. As Xerri, accompanied by coaching staff member Paul Azzopardi, made their way towards the dressing room, they passed the Qala Saints bench. It is alleged that racial remarks were directed at Xerri, which led to a heated argument involving several individuals, including Azzopardi and Mizzi.

Later, through their official Facebook page, Nadur Youngsters condemned all forms of racism and discrimination, affirming their full support for Joseph Xerri and vowing that the incident would not go unaddressed. As they stated, “Nadur Youngsters FC condemns all forms of racism and discrimination. We stand firmly behind you, Joseph, and we promise this matter will NOT go unnoticed. Racism has no place in football, on or off the pitch.”

#MaltaDaily