Millwall FC defender Zak Sturge was subjected to racist abuse on social media following his red card during Saturday’s defeat to Blackburn Rovers.
The 21-year-old was sent off in the 59th minute after fouling Yuki Ohashi while Millwall were leading 1-0. The dismissal proved pivotal, as Blackburn defender Mathias Jorgensen scored twice in the closing stages to secure a dramatic turnaround for the visitors.
Millwall later confirmed that Sturge had received racist messages on Instagram from two overseas accounts following the match.
According to the club, the abuse originated from two Instagram accounts based outside the United Kingdom — one in Belgium and another in Mexico. Both accounts allegedly used racist emojis and offensive comments relating to the player’s skin colour.
Millwall FC stated that the accounts have been reported to Meta Platforms, the parent company of Instagram, as well as to the English Football League (EFL).
The club also indicated that neither account appears to have any direct connection with supporters of Millwall or Blackburn.
In a statement, Millwall strongly condemned the abuse and confirmed the club is providing support to the young defender and his family.
“It is disgraceful that in 2026 players continue to be subjected to such abuse,” the statement read. “It has no place in the sport we love or in society.”
Prior to the sending-off, Millwall had taken the lead through an acrobatic bicycle kick from midfielder Luke Cundle in the 54th minute.
However, Sturge’s challenge on Ohashi just before the hour changed the momentum of the game. The Japan international appeared to be through on goal when referee Andrew Kitchen produced a straight red card, although Millwall captain Jake Cooper was positioned nearby and may have been able to provide defensive cover.
Blackburn capitalised on their numerical advantage late in the match, with Jorgensen scoring in the 80th and 85th minutes to secure a comeback victory.
The result denied Millwall three points that would have lifted them to second place in the Championship standings.
