A 47-year-old man, Mark Mogan, has pleaded not guilty to racially abusing Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo during a Premier League match between Liverpool and Bournemouth at Anfield on August 15. The incident allegedly occurred during the opening game of the 2025/26 Premier League season.

Mogan, of Templehill Close, Dovecot, appeared in person at Liverpool Magistrates' Court on Monday, December 22, 2025, to enter his plea. He confirmed his name and address before pleading not guilty to the charge of racially aggravated disorderly behavior.

The match was briefly halted in the 29th minute by referee Anthony Taylor after Semenyo reported the abuse. A man was then ejected from Anfield stadium. Semenyo, 25, went on to score twice in the second half, helping Bournemouth recover from a two-goal deficit before Liverpool ultimately won the game 4-2.

Following the incident in August, Liverpool Football Club stated that they were aware of the allegations and condemned racism and discrimination in all forms. The Football Association also expressed concern and assured that appropriate action would be taken. FIFA president Gianni Infantino also condemned the racist abuse directed at Semenyo.

Mogan has been released on bail with conditions, including that he must not contact Semenyo directly or indirectly, or make any reference to him on social media. He is also banned from attending any regulated football grounds as part of his bail conditions.

Mogan's trial is scheduled to take place on April 22 of next year, and Semenyo is expected to attend the proceedings.