In a landmark ruling that underscores Spain’s intensifying crackdown on racism in football, a Barcelona court has sentenced an Espanyol supporter to one year in prison for racially abusing Athletic Bilbao striker Inaki Williams during a La Liga match in January 2020.
The incident occurred at RCDE Stadium, where the fan directed racist chants and gestures toward the Ghanaian international as he was substituted off the pitch. The court found the behavior to be a serious violation of Williams’ dignity, citing the emotional harm and public humiliation endured by the player in front of tens of thousands of spectators and viewers.
Although the sentence is officially one year, Spanish law permits suspended sentences for first-time offenders whose punishment is under two years.
The Spanish Prosecutor’s Office had initially sought a two-year sentence and a €5,000 fine, but a plea agreement was reached after the defendant admitted guilt.
La Liga issued a statement applauding the verdict: “Today’s ruling represents another milestone in the fight against racism in football and the eradication of all forms of violence inside and outside stadiums.”
This case joins a growing list of judicial actions aimed at curbing racism in Spanish football. Recent convictions include suspended sentences for Atletico Madrid fans who hung a dummy of Vinicius Junior from a bridge, and prison terms for Valencia supporters who abused the Real Madrid star.