La Liga admits measures against racism, violence ‘must be improved’

La Liga admits measures against racism, violence ‘must be improved’

Statement follows off-pitch events at stadiums over the weekend.

Bilbao’s Inaki Williams was subjected to racist chanting in Saturday’s 1-1 draw at Espanyol. (Twitter pic/Inaki Williams)
MADRID:
La Liga has announced a series of measures to combat fan violence and racism in stadiums after Espanyol’s match at home to Athletic Bilbao and Valencia’s game against visiting Barcelona were overshadowed by events off the pitch.

Bilbao’s Inaki Williams was subjected to racist chanting in Saturday’s 1-1 draw at Espanyol where hooligan violence broke out before kick-off, while fans were filmed fighting outside Valencia’s ground before the 2-0 win over Barca.

The organising body said in a statement it had opened procedures to identify the fans and would look to bring criminal charges of hate crime against the perpetrators, while also recommending Espanyol be hit with a partial stadium closure.

It also said it would work alongside the federation and players’ association to make it easier for player’s to report derogatory chanting.

Addressing the outbreaks of violence among fans, the league added that it would review how tickets are sold to matches and would press charges against anyone found to be involved in the incidents.

“La Liga wishes to express its rejection and profound concern with respect to the incidents that occurred yesterday, acknowledging that measures put in place several years ago must be improved,” added the statement.

“Although there has been a decline of insults, incidents and violent attitudes in and outside football stadiums, yesterday’s events mean those measures are no longer sufficient.”

Stay current - Follow FMT on WhatsApp, Google news and Telegram

Subscribe to our newsletter and get news delivered to your mailbox.