Police are investigating the alleged racial abuse of Hibs star Jair Tavares during a Scottish Premiership match with Dundee United at Tannadice.
Officers are urging witnesses to come forward after footage online appeared to show the Portuguese player being labelled a "black b******" as he retrieved the ball from the side of the pitch during the second half.
As the Record reported yesterday Hibs released a statement slamming the "completely unacceptable" incident, that is said to have occurred during their cinch Premiership game against Dundee United at Tannadice Park on Tuesday.
The video sparked fury among fans online and Dundee United has launched an investigation into the incident. However, police in Tayside say that while they are aware of the footage, they are yet to receive any formal reports of alleged racist conduct and have asked fans to get in touch.
Chief Inspector Ross Fitzgerald, local area commander for the regional division, said: “We are aware of a video circulating on social media regarding an alleged racial incident at Tannadice Park on Tuesday, 11 October, 2022. Although we haven't received any formal complaints, we would urge anyone who saw what happened, or who has footage, to please contact us.
"Racism in any form will not be tolerated and all reports will be thoroughly investigated.”
United launched an investigation into the incident but says just two stadium microphones were active on the night - at the other end of the stadium from where the incident is said to have occurred. The Tangerines have now confirmed they are satisfied the remark came from the away side of the arena.
It said on Thursday: "Following feedback from the host broadcaster and analysis of the audio mics available, both clubs unequivocally accept that the shout came from the stand housing the away fans. While there is no conclusive proof to confirm the words used by the offender, all parties are in agreement, based on the evidence available, that the likelihood is the comment was derogatory rather than racial.
"In no way does this make the abuse acceptable, but it is clear that the initial media clip and reaction by parties after that offered an unreliable and skewed representation of the incident. Dundee United FC offers our continued assistance to Hibernian FC should they wish to attempt to identify the individual responsible for the comment."
Hibs said: "Hibernian FC will continue to investigate the matter with Dundee United, the host broadcaster, and other stakeholders, to ensure that the correct outcome is reached. If an individual is identified, then the person will face the strongest action from the Club."
Fans and anti-racism groups have called for stern action to be taken against the perpetrator of the alleged abuse in the event they are identified.
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