UN rights chief: Players should copy Boateng's walkout against racism

Footballers should follow the example of German-born Ghana midfielder Kevin-Prince Boateng in tackling racism, UN human rights chief Zeid Ra'ad Al Hussein said Friday.

In 2013, when Boateng was playing for AC Milan, he left the pitch during a match against Pro Patria because of racist chants by supporters of that fourth-league side.

High Commissioner Zeid told a Geneva press conference he met Boateng, who now plays for Eintracht Frankfurt, and was informed by the 31-year-old midfielder that racism persists in many football stadiums.

Zeid said other players should heed Boateng's example.

"Many of them have huge followings. They can greatly influence the attitudes involving racism, and where it concerns players of African origin or African players," Zeid said.