AC Milan player invited to UN event against racism

Kevin-Prince Boateng (right) was lauded for walking off the field amid racist chants at a friendly.

Carlo Baroncini/AP

MILAN (AP) -- AC Milan midfielder Kevin-Prince Boateng has been invited by the United Nations to attend its International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.

Boateng led his teammates off the field this month to protest racial abuse by opposing fans during an exhibition match against fourth-tier Italian club Pro Patria.

The U.N. event, which takes place in Geneva on March 21, has been in place since 1966. This year's focus is on racism in sport.

Milan announced the news on its website Wednesday.

Copyright 2013 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.