Arsene Wenger ridicules Blatter's take on racism

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has ridiculed FIFA president Sepp Blatter's comments on racism, saying that any player who is found guilty of racism should be given due punishment.

The Frenchman believes racism has got a boost after the failure of governing bodies to monitor it.

"I am against any discrimination. I am for zero tolerance, on the pitch and off the pitch," Wenger was quoted saying by the Sun Saturday.

"There is some bitterness here with Blatter and FIFA after the World Cup bid but that does not mean Blatter can say - you do not have to punish racist comments. I think you have to."

"Punishments for racism have not always been harsh enough," Wenger said.

Wenger says that penalising footballers was imperative to curb racism.

"Football gives all players a chance because you are selected on merit. If you are a good player, you play no matter where you come from. It is not always true in a normal society and that is why sport can be an example for society.

"The players will always adapt. They know that if they are punished when they do it, they will shut up," he added.