Racist scandal: what this mayor said about Real shocks Spain

A fresh wave of controversy has hit Spanish football following Real Madrid’s Champions League elimination, but this time, it isn’t about tactics or player performances. It’s about words—words that have stunned the nation and sparked outrage beyond the pitch.

Real Madrid were knocked out of the UEFA Champions League after suffering a 2-1 loss at home to Arsenal, just a week after enduring a crushing 3-0 defeat in London. The aggregate score of 5-1 sent the Spanish giants crashing out of the quarter-finals in humiliating fashion.

The elimination has triggered a range of emotional reactions from fans, pundits, and football officials. However, one comment from a local politician has crossed a line that has shocked not only Spain but the global football community.

Gonzalo Pérez Jácome, the mayor of Ourense—a city in the northwestern region of Galicia—took to social media to offer his reaction to Real Madrid’s exit. What he said, however, went far beyond sporting critique.

In a statement that has since gone viral for all the wrong reasons, Pérez Jácome declared:
“That Real Madrid thought that by signing a lot of black players they would make a physical difference in the games, is to have no idea about football or athletics.”

The remarks have been widely condemned as racist, drawing heavy criticism from fans, journalists, political leaders, and anti-discrimination organizations across Spain and beyond. Many are calling for an official apology—or even resignation—from the mayor.

Social media erupted shortly after the post was published. Thousands of users flooded the comment section, denouncing the mayor’s words and highlighting the racial undertones in his statement. Hashtags like #StopRacism and #RespectAllPlayers quickly began trending on Spanish Twitter.

Real Madrid themselves have not yet issued an official response, but sources close to the club suggest that the comments were met with anger and disbelief within the organization. Some players are said to be “deeply hurt” by the implication that their presence is reduced to mere physicality.

The statement touches on a long-standing issue in football—racism cloaked in so-called “sporting analysis.” By implying that black players are selected solely for their athleticism, the mayor perpetuated a stereotype that strips athletes of their intelligence, skill, and tactical contributions.

Several prominent figures in Spanish football have spoken out. Former national team coach Vicente del Bosque called the comments “shameful” and “a disgrace to Spanish leadership.” He emphasized the importance of unity, respect, and diversity in football.

Anti-racism organizations such as Futbol Sin Odio (Football Without Hate) and SOS Racismo have demanded that disciplinary action be taken. They argue that public officials must be held to higher standards when speaking about matters that impact millions.

Political leaders have also weighed in. Yolanda Díaz, Spain’s Minister of Labor and a leading voice in the fight against discrimination, labeled the comments “deeply worrying” and “proof that racism remains alive in our institutions.”

Meanwhile, fans of Real Madrid and other clubs have united in expressing support for the players targeted by the mayor’s remarks. Messages of solidarity have poured in for stars like Vinícius Jr., Aurélien Tchouaméni, Eduardo Camavinga, and Antonio Rüdiger—players who have been instrumental to Madrid’s success.

It’s not the first time Spanish football has been embroiled in a racism-related scandal. Just last year, Vinícius Jr. was subjected to monkey chants in Valencia, an incident that led to widespread protests and international condemnation. Now, another incident has reopened those wounds.

This latest controversy raises urgent questions about leadership, education, and accountability in Spain’s political and sporting circles. How can the game evolve if those in power continue to reinforce harmful stereotypes?

Many are calling for greater integration of anti-racism education in both football and public service sectors. The belief is that awareness alone isn’t enough—tangible steps must be taken to punish offenders and protect players.

While Real Madrid’s exit from the Champions League may dominate headlines for now, the mayor’s comments have sparked a much deeper conversation—one that could have long-lasting effects on how racism in football is addressed in Spain and across Europe.

As of now, Gonzalo Pérez Jácome has not retracted his statement or issued an apology. Pressure continues to mount, and protests have even been planned outside the city hall of Ourense, demanding accountability.

Whether or not sanctions follow, the damage has already been done. In a moment when football should be used to unite people of all backgrounds, one voice chose to divide—and Spain is still reeling from it.