SLFA and FC Augsburg Condemn Racism and Death Threats Against Juma Bah

The Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) and German Bundesliga club FC Augsburg have condemned racist abuse and death threats directed at Sierra Leone international defender Abdulai Juma Bah and his family following an incident on social media.

Augsburg disclosed the abuse in a statement published on Saturday, October 24, 2026, saying the 20-year-old defender had received racist insults and death threats on Instagram. The club also said threats had been directed at his family and confirmed that it would report the incident to the police and pursue available legal options. 

“We will never accept, tolerate or simply ignore such behaviour,” the club said, reaffirming its commitment to protecting players from discrimination and threats.

Abuse Follows Bundesliga Red Card

Juma Bah in FC Augsburg Stadium

The incident came after Bah was sent off during Augsburg’s 1-1 draw against Union Berlin on Saturday. The Sierra Leonean defender received a red card in the 63rd minute following a challenge on Union Berlin’s András Schäfer. 

However, criticism of a player’s performance does not justify racist abuse, threats of violence or intimidation directed at the player’s family.

Augsburg said attacks against its players also targeted the values of the club, stressing that everyone deserves respect, dignity and safety regardless of skin colour, background, religion or nationality.

The club concluded its statement with a message of solidarity: “We stand firmly behind you, Juma!”

SLFA Expresses Solidarity

Juma Bah in action for Leone Stars

On Sunday, October 25, 2026, the SLFA issued a press release condemning the reported abuse. The association also expressed solidarity with Bah, his family and FC Augsburg.

The association described the incidents as unacceptable in both football and society, adding that racism, intimidation and threats of violence undermine the principles of respect, fairness, inclusion and sportsmanship.

“Every player deserves to compete and live without fear of racial discrimination, harassment, or threats to their personal safety,” the SLFA said.

The association also commended Augsburg for taking the matter seriously and pursuing legal action. It called on football governing bodies, clubs, law enforcement agencies, social media platforms and supporters worldwide to take decisive action against racism and other forms of abuse. 

Support for Sierra Leone’s Rising Defender

Bah is on a season-long loan at Augsburg from English Premier League side Manchester City. He has emerged as one of Sierra Leone’s promising young footballers.

Born in Freetown, the defender previously played for Spanish side Real Valladolid and French clubs RC Lens and OGC Nice. He joined Augsburg in September 2026. He made his Bundesliga debut against Bayern Munich earlier in October, helping Augsburg secure a 2-2 draw. 

The incident has renewed attention on the abuse footballers can face online. Both Augsburg and the SLFA have made clear that racism and threats have no place in the sport.

The club is exploring legal options. Meanwhile, the SLFA has urged football stakeholders to work together to make the game safer and more inclusive. It stressed the need to respect and protect every player, regardless of background.