By Real Madrid have initiated an investigation into alleged racist abuse aimed at Barcelona’s teenage star Lamine Yamal during Saturday’s El Clasico at the Bernabeu, the club announced in a statement.
Social media videos have surfaced appearing to show the 17-year-old Spanish forward being subjected to taunts by a group of home supporters as he celebrated his 77th-minute goal by pointing to his name on the back of his shirt. Yamal’s goal was part of a comprehensive 4-0 victory for the Catalan side, with Robert Lewandowski netting twice and Raphinha completing the scoring.
The result sees Barcelona extend their lead at the top of La Liga to six points over their arch-rivals. However, the alleged racist incident has overshadowed the on-field action, prompting swift condemnation from Real Madrid.
“Real Madrid strongly condemns any kind of behaviour involving racism, xenophobia or violence in football and sport, and deeply regrets the insults that a few fans uttered last night in one of the corners of the stadium,” the club’s statement read.
“Real Madrid has opened an investigation in order to locate and identify the perpetrators of these deplorable and despicable insults so that the appropriate disciplinary and judicial measures can be taken.”
The incident comes amidst a broader effort by the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) and La Liga to combat a rise in racist abuse at football matches. Measures have included partial stadium closures and increased penalties for offending clubs and individuals.
Last week, four people were arrested in connection with an online campaign of hate and racism targeting Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr. The campaign allegedly encouraged supporters to racially abuse the 24-year-old Brazilian, instructing them to wear black face masks to avoid identification, according to police.
In June, three Valencia fans were sentenced to eight months in prison for racially abusing Vinicius Jr. during a match in May 2023, highlighting the severity with which Spanish authorities are treating such incidents.
The alleged abuse directed at Lamine Yamal, one of Barcelona’s most promising young talents, has once again brought the issue of racism in Spanish football to the forefront. The teenager, who became the youngest player to score in El Clasico at the age of 17 years and 106 days, has been a revelation since breaking into the first team this season.
