Nicolas Anelka accused of undermining anti-racism programs
Nicolas Anelka performed the gesture, known in France as a "quenelle" and described by many as being anti-Semitic, after scoring for West Bromwich Albion against West Ham during a Premier League match in December.
A disciplinary panel that banned Nicolas Anelka for five matches for a racially aggravated goal celebration says the French striker has undermined efforts to banish discrimination from the game.
Anelka performed the gesture, known in France as a "quenelle" and described by many as being anti-Semitic, after scoring for West Bromwich Albion against West Ham during a Premier League match in December.
An independent regulatory commission said Anelka had no intention of promoting anti-Semitism with his celebration, even though it is "strongly associated with anti-Semitism."
The commission released its written reasons for the ban on Thursday, saying his gesture was aggravated by "his profile and the fact that such conduct undermines campaigns to promote inclusivity, equality and diversity."