Away from the domestic scene much of my work takes me into Europe. I am active in campaigning for racial equality across the continent. And one issue that is consistently raised in dialogue, is the problem in Spanish football.We’ve seen the Spanish FA’s latest gaffe by penalising Real Madrid a mere 3,000 Euros after their fans made fascist gestures at a recent La Liga fixture. How can this derisory fine possibly serve as a deterrent to one of the richest clubs in the world?
For me, the solution is simple; implementation and enforcement of the law, alongside educational measures that aid integration. Governing bodies must get tough with incidents like the Real Madrid one. And, if key social messages are ever going to filter through to young football fans across the country, then the grassroots game needs closer inspection too.
I'll be watching the upcoming international fixture between Spain and England with anticipation. If we see a repeat of the vile monkey chanting of 2004, the Spanish FA must act. I’ve called for zero tolerance if we see a repeat of scenes in the Bernabeau of 2004 because I believe that footballers, like everyone else, have the right to work and perform in a racism free environment. Anything else simply isn’t good enough.
I'll be watching the upcoming international fixture between Spain and England with anticipation. If we see a repeat of the vile monkey chanting of 2004, the Spanish FA must act. I’ve called for zero tolerance if we see a repeat of scenes in the Bernabeau of 2004 because I believe that footballers, like everyone else, have the right to work and perform in a racism free environment. Anything else simply isn’t good enough.
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