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La Liga and Real Madrid have denounced racist abuse targeted at Barcelona’s young forward, Lamine Yamal, during Saturday’s El Clasico at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Videos circulating on social media appear to show sections of Madrid fans taunting the 17-year-old as he celebrated his 77th-minute goal.
Yamal responded to the crowd’s hostility by pointing to his name on the back of his shirt, standing defiant. This moment, however, was overshadowed by the disturbing conduct of some home supporters.
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Barcelona’s victory over Real Madrid, sealed by two goals from Robert Lewandowski and a strike from Raphinha, was a strong statement. The 4-0 win moved them six points clear at the top of La Liga.
In response, La Liga swiftly condemned the racial abuse, stating it would take action. A statement announced plans to report the incidents to the Hate Crimes Section of Spain’s National Police.
La Liga and Real Madrid firm against racist abuse
The league reaffirmed its commitment to eliminate any form of racial hostility both in and outside stadiums. They will also involve Spain’s Co-ordinating Prosecutor of the Hate Crimes and Discrimination unit in the investigation.
Real Madrid also addressed the issue, launching their own probe to identify the offending fans. The club issued a statement expressing regret and condemning any racist or violent behaviour in sports.
This incident follows increasing efforts by Spanish authorities to crack down on racist abuse in football. Earlier measures, including partial stadium closures, aim to curb the growing trend of fan misconduct.
In a similar case, four individuals were arrested last week for inciting racial hate against Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr. The campaign allegedly encouraged fans to wear black masks to remain unidentified while targeting the Brazilian forward.
In June, three Valencia fans were sentenced to prison for racially abusing Vinicius during a game in May 2023.
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