Inaki Williams racist abuse: LaLiga investigating incident during Espanyol vs Athletic Club match

Athletic Bilbao’s Inaki Williams
AFP via Getty Images
Ben Hayward27 January 2020

LaLiga are investigating the alleged racial abuse aimed at Athletic Club forward Inaki Williams in their 1-1 draw at Espanyol on Saturday.

Williams could be seen protesting at insults from the stands as he walked off at one end after his substitution in the 69th minute and spoke of the incident after the game.

"I leave here a little said because of the draw and especially because I suffered racist insults," the 25-year-old said after the match.

"It's something no player of black race or any race wants to hear. It's totally out of order. We are all people, regardless of our nationality or the colour of our skin."

Later, he wrote on Twitter: "It's very sad that still today, we are experiencing racist scenes in football. We have to end it for EVERYONE. Thanks for your support."

In a statement, LaLiga said they were "deeply concerned" and added that they have reported the incidents to the RFEF (Spanish Football Federation) Competition Committee, "expecting a partial closure of the stand" where the insults were made.

Spain's top flight said they would "maintain contact with the AFE (Association of Spanish footballers) and the RFEF" to ensure players suffering similar abuse "immediately inform the match referee" when incidents occur (as Williams had, via captain Iker Muniain, according to Cadena SER) and revealed they are seeking to track down those responsible.

"LaLiga has already started proceedings to identify the fans who shouted insults against Iñaki Williams, in order to initiate criminal proceedings for a hate crime and to report the incidents to the State Commission against violence, racism and xenophobia in sport," they said.

In the same statement, LaLiga also said they would be tightening regulations on the sale of tickets to away fans, especially in "high-risk" matches, after Valencia and Barcelona ultras clashed outside Mestalla ahead of Saturday's league game, which Albert Celades' side won 2-0.

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