A Sevilla FC fan is facing jail for allegedly calling a black football player a ‘monkey’ while making primate gestures towards him.
The supporter is accused racially abusing Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr during a match against Sevilla at the Ramon-Pizjuan stadium in October 2023.
The Provincial Court of Sevilla is scheduled to hear the case on September 22, after the trial was postponed from its original date in April.
Prosecutors are seeking one year and nine months in prison.
They claim the defendant repeatedly directed racist insults and gestures towards the Brazilian international during the 90-minute match.
Prosecutors allege he shouted ‘monkey’ several times, imitated the movements of primates and repeatedly made grunting noises.
The supporter was sitting in the Gol Norte stand close to the pitch when the alleged abuse occurred.
In its indictment, the prosecution claims he repeatedly addressed Vinicius with insults showing ‘evident contempt’ for the colour of the player’s skin.
It alleges his behaviour caused the footballer ‘feelings of frustration, shame and humiliation’, undermining his dignity.
The prosecution also highlights that the alleged abuse took place at a major La Liga fixture in front of a large audience across television, radio and digital and print media.
Sevilla FC expelled the member after becoming aware of the incident.
The supporter is accused of an offence against moral integrity under Article 173.1 of Spain’s Criminal Code, with prosecutors seeking the application of an aggravating factor on the grounds that the alleged offence was motivated by racism.
Both La Liga and Real Madrid are participating in the proceedings.
In addition to the requested prison sentence, prosecutors are seeking a two-year ban from football stadiums.
If imposed, the restriction would prevent the defendant from attending matches organised by La Liga or the Spanish Football Federation.
That would include La Liga fixtures as well as the Copa del Rey, Spanish Super Cup, RFEF competitions and relevant professional international and national-team matches.
The prosecution specifically references Primera RFEF, while Segunda and Tercera RFEF are also competitions organised by the Spanish federation.
The trial is due to begin in Sevilla on September 22.
Read more Andalucia news at the Spanish Eye.
