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Spanish football club Villarreal has strongly denounced a violent attack on two disabled supporters that took place outside their home stadium following Saturday's La Liga clash against Valencia.
The incident occurred after the teams played to a 1-1 draw at the Estadio de la Cerámica. Among the victims was a player from Villarreal’s EDI team, which consists of athletes with intellectual disabilities. He was hospitalized overnight for observation and tests after suffering multiple contusions. The second victim sustained a severe maxillofacial fracture and remained in Castellón General Hospital as of Monday morning.
In an official statement, Villarreal condemned the violence, calling it completely unacceptable. "The club wishes to express its unwavering support for those affected and has been in continuous contact with them since the attack," the statement read. The club also pledged full cooperation with the police investigation.
Valencia also issued a statement rejecting the attack, emphasizing that violence has no place in football. "Stadiums should be free from hatred, and we strongly condemn these acts, which do not reflect the core values of sport," the club said.
According to reports, the attack occurred as three disabled fans were leaving the stadium. Five hooded individuals targeted two of them, allegedly looking for a confrontation with Villarreal supporters. One victim, 21-year-old Mario, was knocked unconscious, suffering facial injuries, losing multiple teeth, and sustaining a double jaw fracture. He is now awaiting surgery once his condition stabilizes. The other victim, an 18-year-old, also required overnight hospitalization.
Authorities are working to identify the assailants, who are suspected to be linked to Valencia supporters. Images taken before the match reportedly show individuals dressed similarly to those involved in the attack.
Speaking about the incident, Mario expressed his distress: "I just want justice to be served. People with disabilities should not have to live in fear of going out in public."
Villarreal has vowed to assist authorities in bringing those responsible to justice. The attack is part of a concerning rise in 'ultra' football violence in Spain, with organized clashes becoming increasingly common in recent years.
Police investigations remain ongoing.
Featured Image Credit: Pixabay / jorono
