0
Published on Sep 28, 2024 at 4:26 p.m. par
Abdel Maarous
Madrid Derby: The clash between Atlético and Real under tension
The Madrid derby is much more than just a football match. It is a real institution which crystallizes the rivalries between two of the biggest clubs in Spain. Each match is an event that mobilizes thousands of supporters, and this weekend will be no exception. The palpable tension on the pitch will also be felt in the stands, where passions are easily inflamed.
Vinícius Junioroften in the crosshairs of Atlético supporters, has already denounced on several occasions the racist behavior of which he was the victim. This situation led to a particular climate around his presence at Civitas Metropolitano. For this derby, Atlético supporters launched a call to come to the stadium with masks, in response to the accusations made against their audience. The hashtag #MetropolitanoConMascarilla quickly made the rounds on social networks.
La Liga’s Reaction: Zero Tolerance to Racism
La Liga has not remained silent in the face of these calls. In a statement, the championship’s governing body announced that it would take strict action against those who participated in this campaign. The objective is clear: to denounce any racist act and guarantee the safety and well-being of all spectators present at the match. La Liga said:
“LALIGA wishes to announce that it will make a formal denunciation and request the immediate arrest of the instigators of a hate campaign aimed at promoting racist and derogatory acts during the next match between Atlético de Madrid and Real Madrid, scheduled for September 29, 2024 at 9:00 p.m. local time in Spain.
The aforementioned campaign constitutes an offense of incitement to hatred, as clearly defined in the penal code. LALIGA strongly condemns these actions which – directly or indirectly – encourage, promote and incite hatred against an individual, in this case, player Vinicius Jr, because of his race.
LALIGA will under no circumstances tolerate such behavior. Not only do these actions damage the image of the sport and our country, but they also pose a direct threat to the integrity and well-being of all fans.”
This press release is part of a broader framework of the fight against racism in football. La Liga also praised the exemplary behavior of the majority of supporters who work for a respectful environment. Their cooperation was essential in identifying the perpetrators of hateful behavior, thus enabling action to be taken against these unacceptable acts.
