Real Madrid defender Antonio Rudiger was subjected to racist abuse by Cadiz fans during their La Liga match. Rudiger tried to give his shirt to a fan, but the home supporters shouted racial slurs at him. The incident was captured on video and shared on social media. The abuse continued even after Rudiger was escorted away by a member of his team.
This is unfortunately not the first time that a Real Madrid player has been subjected to racist abuse from rival fans. Earlier this season, Vinicius Junior was called a “monkey” and a racist doll dressed in a Real Madrid shirt was held aloft by one fan during a game with Atletico Madrid. Another doll, wearing a Vinicius shirt, was hung from a bridge in Madrid before a meeting of the two sides.
Handing over shirts to fans is a common practice in England, but it appears to be uncommon in Spain. On commentary during the match, Carlos Martinez criticized Rudiger for “facing the stands” and questioned what he was doing. Presenter Isabel Forner corrected him and explained that Rudiger was simply trying to give a fan his shirt.
Real Madrid’s victory over Cadiz kept them on top of the race for second place in La Liga. Carlo Ancelotti could have rested some players ahead of the return leg against Chelsea, but instead he chose to play a strong side. Goals from Nacho and Marco Asensio secured all three points for Los Blancos.
The incident involving Rudiger highlights the ongoing problem of racism in football. It is unacceptable that players should be subjected to such abuse. It is up to fans, clubs, and football authorities to take action to eradicate racism from the sport. There is no place for racism in football or in any other aspect of society.
