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'Verona isn't racist, the fans are' - AIC president Tommasi after Balotelli incident

The former Italian international believes the city isn't responsible for the derogatory chants of supporters

Racism directed at Brescia striker Mario Balotelli by Hellas Verona fans does not mean the city itself has a problem, says Italian Footballers' Association (AIC) president Damiano Tommasi.

Balotelli, who has been the target of attacks throughout his career, was again singled out for abuse from the stands during Sunday's Serie A encounter at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi in Verona.

The Italian reacted angrily, booting the ball into the crowd, before being convinced to stay on the pitch by team-mates and opponents.