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13 June 2026 Updated: 26 June 2026

Roly Gregoire: the Sunderland footballer clarifies his story after 46 years

Roly Gregoire, Sunderland's first black footballer, reflects on his career and the racism he faced, which led him to leave football for decades.

Roly Gregoire: the Sunderland footballer clarifies his story after 46 years
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When Roly Gregoire gave up football in 1980 due to a knee injury, he had faced so much racism that he could not bear to watch football for many years. Forty-six years later, the former striker reveals why and shares his memories of being Sunderland's first black footballer. Warning: The story contains details of racist language and behavior.

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