La Liga Match Paused Amid Racism Allegations Against Elche’s Rafa Mir
The LaLiga EA Sports match between Elche and Espanyol was halted in the 80th minute on Sunday after the anti-racism protocol was activated, following an allegation by Omar El Hilali of a racist comment made by Rafa Mir.
Incident Details
The incident stemmed from a challenge in the 78th minute. According to the referee’s report, El Hilali informed Iosu Galech Apezteguía that Mir had said to him, You came in a dinghy
.
Protocol Activation and Match Interruption
Upon being alerted to the alleged comment, the referee immediately activated the anti-racism protocol, signaling his decision by crossing his arms. Play was paused for approximately three minutes as the referee consulted with club delegates.
Players from both teams gathered in the center of the field while the situation was assessed. Play resumed after the initial stage of the protocol was completed, which involved a public warning and notification to stadium officials.
Referee’s Report and Lack of Witness Confirmation
“In the 78th minute, RCD Espanyol player number 23, Mr. Omar El Hilali, informed me that Elche CF player number 10, Mr. Rafael Mir Vicente, addressed him in the following terms: ‘You came in a dinghy,’ which could not be heard by any of the members of the refereeing team. I proceeded to activate the anti-racism protocol, which is why the match was stopped for 3 minutes.”
Iosu Galech Apezteguía, Referee’s Report
The referee’s report, published approximately 45 minutes after the final whistle, noted that El Hilali made the accusation, but that none of the officiating team overheard the alleged remark.
Potential Disciplinary Action
Neither Elche nor Espanyol released official statements immediately following the match. The matter may be referred to the Competition Committee to determine if further action is warranted. Any disciplinary action against Mir could depend on additional evidence, testimony, or video footage.
According to reports, if found guilty of the alleged offense, Mir could face a suspension of up to ten matches under Article 105.
La Liga’s Anti-Racism Protocol
LaLiga’s anti-racism protocol consists of three phases: a warning, temporary suspension, and definitive suspension.
FAQ
- What triggered the pause in the match? Espanyol player Omar El Hilali alleged that Elche player Rafa Mir made a racist comment towards him.
- Did the referee hear the alleged comment? No, the referee’s report states that none of the officiating team heard the alleged remark.
- What could be the consequences for Rafa Mir? He could face a suspension of up to ten matches if found guilty.
The incident underscores the ongoing challenges Spanish football faces in addressing racism, both on and off the pitch.