Hearts launch probe into alleged racial abuse of Rangers striker Alfredo Morelos

Hearts have launched an investigation into alleged racial abuse towards Rangers striker Alfredo Morelos during the Scottish Premiership fixture at Tynecastle on Sunday.

Alfredo Morelos celebrates his equaliser in front of the Hearts fans

Colombian international Morelos celebrated in front of Hearts fans after scoring his team’s equaliser in a 1-1 draw.

Hearts have pledged to issue a life ban to any of their supporters found guilty of racially abusing Morelos.

A Hearts statement read: "The club is aware of the incident in question and is currently investigating it.

"It goes without saying that Heart of Midlothian Football Club utterly condemns any form of racism and any individuals found guilty of such an offence will face an indefinite ban from Tynecastle Park."

The probe comes in the wake of several matches marred by racist incidents.

On Saturday, an FA Cup match between Haringey Borough and Yeovil Town was abandoned after Haringey's players walked off amid claims of racial abuse from fans, while Bristol City chiefs are looking into reports of racist language being used by spectators during their Championship clash at Luton.

Earlier this week, England's Euro 2020 qualifier in Bulgaria was twice stopped as supporters were warned about racist behaviour while Celtic's Europa League opponents Lazio were hit with a partial stadium ban for the visit of the Hoops early next month after UEFA found the Italian side's fans guilty of racist behaviour in a previous European match with French side Rennes.