(CNN) -- FIFA has asked the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) to investigate alleged comments from the front runner to become its next president that referred to African players as "banana eaters." Reports in Italy claim Carlo Tavecchio, who is currently the organization's vice-president, made the remarks at a conference of Italy's amateur leagues at the weekend. He touched on the debate that has followed Italy's group stage exit at the recent World Cup in Brazil, with some suggesting there are too many foreign players operating in the country's top league -- Serie A. Tavecchio made reference to the system in England, which has strict rules on players from outside the European Union.
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FIFA asks Italian soccer federation to investigate alleged racist remarks
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Carlo Tavecchio said to have referred to African players as "banana eaters"
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Tavecchio running to be president of the Italian Football Federation in August
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Italian prime minister among those questioning his suitability for the role
"I think the question is, where does this leave this very strong struggle, this real big problem that @placeholder football has had historically?"