Liverpool Women’s FC goalkeeper Rafaela Borggrafe has been handed a six-game suspension for using discriminatory language towards a teammate, following an investigation by the Football Association (FA).

The ban, confirmed on Friday, comes after an incident during Liverpool’s pre-season training camp, reportedly involving an allegedly racist remark. The FA investigation began in September 2025, and Borggrafe has already served five of the six matches, with the final suspension covering Sunday’s Women’s FA Cup fourth-round tie against London Bees at 13:00 GMT.

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FA Investigation and Liverpool’s Response

Liverpool manager Gareth Taylor confirmed that Borggrafe accepted the sanction and has also been enrolled in an FA education programme aimed at addressing discriminatory behavior.

Taylor said:

“The situation is the situation. The team and the club acted in the appropriate way. We supported the FA. It has dragged on a bit, which has been frustrating for everyone involved, particularly Rafaela. We’re happy now that it is completed and happy we have got some details on what it looks like. We all can move on.”

The club followed FA protocols by reporting the incident promptly and awaited the outcome of the investigation. While the punishment duration was initially undecided, the FA has now confirmed the six-match suspension.

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Borggrafe’s Career and Liverpool Appearances

The 25-year-old German goalkeeper joined Liverpool from SC Freiburg during the summer transfer window. Since her arrival, she has made three first-team appearances, including starting in the Reds’ 2-1 defeat to Manchester City at Anfield in October 2025.

Despite her limited appearances, Borggrafe’s suspension is a significant development for Liverpool Women’s team ahead of domestic competitions, including the Women’s FA Cup and the Women’s Super League (WSL).

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Wider Context of Discrimination in Women’s Football

This case underscores the ongoing work being done by the FA and clubs to combat discrimination in football. Sanctions such as Borggrafe’s suspension, combined with educational programmes, are part of efforts to foster inclusivity and respect within women’s football across England.

Liverpool have emphasized their commitment to FA protocols, ensuring that incidents of discriminatory language are addressed swiftly and transparently.

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Next Steps for Liverpool Women

Borggrafe will miss the upcoming FA Cup fourth-round tie against London Bees, but Liverpool remain focused on competing for domestic silverware and maintaining their Women’s Super League ambitions for the 2026 season.

Manager Gareth Taylor concluded:

“We can now move forward as a club, focusing on football. Our priority is supporting the team and creating a positive environment for all our players.”