FIFA has initiated a formal inquiry following a serious allegation of racial abuse during Real Madrid’s Club World Cup match against Mexican side Pachuca.
The incident occurred at the conclusion of the tense encounter on Sunday evening, when Real Madrid defender Antonio Rüdiger accused Pachuca’s Gustavo Cabral of directing racist language towards him.
Sources close to the matter, including Cadena SER, report that Rüdiger claimed Cabral used a deeply offensive racial slur against him. Cabral has vehemently denied this accusation, stating instead that he used the phrase “dirty shit.”
The starkly opposing accounts prompted referee Ramón Abatti to immediately invoke FIFA’s anti-racism protocol during the match, resulting in a brief suspension of play.
Following the final whistle, tensions between the two players remained high, with Rüdiger visibly upset. FIFA has since confirmed it is undertaking a thorough investigation to establish the facts.
This process will involve reviewing video footage, official match reports, and conducting interviews with the individuals involved.
Real Madrid head coach Xabi Alonso voiced strong support for his player during a press briefing, affirming the club’s stance against any form of discrimination. “We stand with Toni,” Alonso stated firmly.
“If these allegations are true, it is completely unacceptable. There can be no tolerance for racism in football. The anti-racism protocol has been activated, and we expect a full investigation. Toni says this happened, and we believe him.”
In contrast, Pachuca’s coach Jaime Lozano responded with a more cautious tone. “I’ve only just been informed of the situation and haven’t had a chance to discuss it with Gustavo,” Lozano said. “Knowing him, I find it hard to believe he would say something like that. I would bet my life on him.”
FIFA’s inquiry aims to deliver a fair and transparent verdict on the matter. The governing body faces the challenge of navigating the conflicting testimonies while sending a clear message about its commitment to eradicating racism from the sport.
This incident comes amid ongoing global efforts to tackle discrimination in football and highlights the delicate nature of such allegations in high-profile competitions. The outcome of the investigation is awaited with keen interest by fans, players, and officials alike.
As the process unfolds, FIFA has reiterated its zero-tolerance policy toward racism and pledged to use this case to reinforce the standards of respect and equality expected at the Club World Cup and beyond.
