Sevilla Football Club has strongly denounced the racist and xenophobic abuse directed at defender Marcos Acuña and coach Quique Sanchez Flores during their recent LaLiga match against Getafe. The incident occurred during Sevilla's 1-0 victory, prompting a halt in the game and activation of LaLiga's anti-racism protocol.
Referee Javier Iglesias Villanueva reported that derogatory remarks, including calling Acuña a 'monkey,' were heard from the crowd, leading to a public warning being issued. Sanchez Flores revealed in a post-match conference that he was subjected to being called a 'gypsy' by a group of fans, emphasizing that such insults have no place in football or society.
Sanchez Flores, who has a proud heritage, expressed his dismay at the use of racial slurs and highlighted the need for mutual respect in football stadiums. He emphasized that football should be a space where all individuals are treated with dignity and professionalism.
Sevilla's Sergio Ramos echoed the sentiment, stressing the importance of holding accountable those who engage in discriminatory behavior. He called for stricter measures, such as identifying and banning offenders from stadiums, to uphold the integrity of the sport and foster unity among fans.
Getafe coach José Bordalás also condemned the incident, emphasizing the club's stance against any form of insult or racism in football. He acknowledged the activation of the anti-racism protocol and reiterated the need for a zero-tolerance approach towards discriminatory behavior.
Racism in Spanish football has been a growing concern, with recent incidents involving players like Vinícius Júnior sparking discussions about combating discrimination in the sport. The ongoing dialogue aims to raise awareness and promote inclusivity within the football community.
