Liverpool Women's goalkeeper Rafaela Borggrafe is under investigation by the Football Association (FA) following allegations of racism. The investigation was launched after Borggrafe allegedly made a comment referencing skin color, which was overheard by teammates and staff members. The incident reportedly occurred during the team's pre-season training camp in Cork, while the squad was preparing for a photograph.
Liverpool Football Club has acknowledged the alleged incident and affirmed its commitment to cooperating fully with the FA's investigation. In a statement released on Friday, the club stated that it "has followed its protocols to the fullest extent and the alleged incident has been reported to the FA, which is conducting an investigation with our full support". The club added, "We condemn all forms of discrimination; it has no place in football or society". Liverpool has stated they will not comment further while the investigation is ongoing.
Borggrafe, who joined Liverpool this summer on a free transfer from SC Freiburg, has denied the allegations. The 25-year-old goalkeeper has yet to make her debut for Liverpool.
The alleged incident and subsequent investigation coincided with Borggrafe's absence from Liverpool's first competitive match of the season, a WSL Merseyside derby against Everton in September. At the time, Liverpool head coach Gareth Taylor cited an "internal club issue" as the reason for her absence. However, Taylor later stated that she had returned to training and was in contention for selection before Liverpool's recent loss against Leicester City. Borggrafe was included in the squad as an unused substitute for that match.
It is not clear whether Borggrafe will be available for selection for Liverpool's upcoming match against Aston Villa in the Women's Super League on Sunday. She reportedly missed training on Thursday due to family reasons unrelated to the investigation.
The FA's investigation is ongoing, and the club is providing its full support. The team have yet to pick up a point in the WSL this season under new manager Taylor. The outcome of the investigation remains to be seen, and the football community awaits further updates as the FA continues its inquiry.
