Valencia and Real Sociedad Condemn Racist Abuse Towards Players at Mestalla Stadium

Valencia CF and Real Sociedad have publicly denounced the racist abuse targeted at Japan international Takefusa Kubo and Sociedad forward Ander Barrenetxea during Sunday’s LaLiga match at Mestalla Stadium.

In a video shared by Real Sociedad on the platform X (formerly Twitter), derogatory and racist remarks could be heard coming from the stands as Kubo and Barrenetxea warmed up before entering the game. Barrenetxea, a native of San Sebastián in the Basque Country, was one of the primary targets alongside Kubo.

Real Sociedad promptly reported the incident to LaLiga following the match, the club confirmed in a statement released on Monday. Valencia CF also issued a strong condemnation of the behavior, emphasizing that such actions do not align with the club’s values.

“Valencia CF is at the disposal of the authorities for any assistance they may require,” the club said in their statement. “If those responsible are identified, the club will enforce strict disciplinary actions, including potential expulsion from Mestalla Stadium.”

This incident adds to a growing list of racist abuse cases in Spanish football. In June, Spain’s Magistrate’s Court in Valencia issued its first-ever conviction for racism in a football stadium, following an investigation into racial slurs aimed at Real Madrid’s Brazilian forward Vinícius Júnior at the same venue.

The issue of racism in Spanish football has sparked widespread criticism from players and clubs. In September, Vinícius Júnior publicly stated that Spain should lose its hosting rights for the 2030 FIFA World Cup unless tangible steps are taken to address racism in the sport.

Both the Spanish Football Federation and LaLiga have implemented measures to counter the surge in racist abuse. These include partial stadium closures, such as those enforced at Mestalla, in response to incidents.

The Spanish government has also taken an active role in investigating racism in football. In October, they joined inquiries into alleged racist insults directed at Barcelona players during a match at Real Madrid’s Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.

As the football community continues to push for stricter regulations and awareness, Valencia and Real Sociedad’s unified stance highlights the urgent need to eradicate racism from the sport.

Featured Image Credit: Pexels / Joaquin Carfagna, Pixabay / jorono