Rico Quitongo takes union advice after Airdrieonians drop racism probe

Airdrieonians player Rico Quitongo has consulted players’ union PFA Scotland and taken legal advice after his club dropped investigations into a complaint of racial abuse.

Quitongo claimed that he was subjected to racist abuse from an Airdrie fan while he played for the club against Queen’s Park in September.

Airdrie opened an inquiry into the incident but said that after a “thorough investigation” there was insufficient evidence to take the matter any further.

PFA Scotland say that the 22-year-old is now taking professional advice not only about the incident itself but into his employer’s actions.

A union spokesperson said: “The Union has recently been advising its member Rico Quitongo, following allegations that he was racially abused by an Airdrieonians fan during the match against Queen’s Park on Saturday 11th September 2021.

“We have been closely supporting Rico on all aspects of these serious allegations and the union’s Solicitors are advising him on his rights under the Equality Act 2010 both in relation to the alleged racist incident and Airdrieonians FC’s handling of it. Our Solicitors are also carefully considering the duties placed on clubs by the SFA to investigate racist allegations of this nature.

“PFA Scotland is fully supportive of Rico in the investigation of this matter.

“As this is now in the hands of our lawyers, there will be no further comment.”

Quitongo said: “I would like to thank PFA Scotland for their support through what has been a difficult time for me and my family.

“I am working closely with the union and their lawyers so will be making no further comment at this time.”