Curto has been banned for 10 matches by FIFA due to racially abused Hwang Hee-chan during a pre-season match

In July of this year, during a pre-season training camp in Marbella, Wolves played a friendly match against Como, during which Korean forward Hwang Hee-chan was racially abused by Como defender Marco Curto. Now, Curto has been handed a 10-match ban by FIFA.

A FIFA spokesperson stated: "Marco Curto has been found responsible for discriminatory conduct and has been sanctioned with a 10-match ban. Half of the ban (5 matches) is suspended for two years. The player is also required to perform community service and undergo training and education at an organization approved by FIFA."

After the incident, Como released a statement claiming that Curto had said, "Don't take him too seriously, he thinks he's Jackie Chan." Wolves filed a complaint with the Italian FA and UEFA, but UEFA stated that they were powerless to act since it was not a UEFA match. The Korean FA then intervened and reported the incident to FIFA.

Following the ruling, Matt Wild, Wolves' Director of Football Operations and Management, said: "We welcome FIFA’s sanction against Curto after the discriminatory incident in the pre-season friendly against Como. The ban sends a clear message that neither football nor society will tolerate racism and discrimination."

"This outcome underscores FIFA's commitment to ensuring that clear actions lead to meaningful consequences. We are pleased to see sports sanctions combined with community service and education, highlighting the importance of both punishment and education in eradicating discrimination from the game we all love."

"We also want to thank the FA for their ongoing support throughout this process. Cooperation between football governing bodies is crucial to effectively addressing incidents like this and protecting players, staff, and supporters from discrimination."

"Wolves will always stand firmly against any form of racism and discrimination, and we will continue to work tirelessly to create an environment where everyone feels respected and included."