An investigation into a hate crime allegation was opened by Madrid’s Prosecutor’s Office following objections from outspoken Atlético de Madrid supporters after an incident outside the Metropolitan Stadium before a Madrid derby between Atlético and Real Madrid. The move came after LaLiga filed a formal complaint about the events in the days prior.
A girl attended the stadium wearing a Vinícius Jr. Real Madrid shirt, accompanied by her aunt and mother, both loyal fans. Moments before the kickoff, a group of ultras targeted the family with racist slurs, prompting them to leave the venue rather than proceed onto the field for the match.
Insults the girl received
In a Cadena SER interview, the aunt described the confrontation, noting that individuals wearing Atlético Front gear hurled a string of slurs, including phrases and expressions of contempt. The family was met with hostility as security and bystanders observed, while chants and insults directed at the girl intensified the distress of those present. The aunt reported that a large crowd joined in, singling out and attacking the girl with demeaning language.
The experience left the girl with an immediate anxiety response. Her guardian acted to remove her from the area quickly, shielding her as best as possible. The child woke multiple times during the night, later expressing confusion about why she was being targeted. The aunt told Cadena Ser that she hoped never to bring the child to a stadium again, given the traumatic memory of the incident.
Complaint to police
The mother and aunt filed a police report and are seeking video evidence that could identify those responsible for the racial abuse. LaLiga escalated the matter to the Prosecutor’s Office, which has taken charge of the investigation to clarify the facts and determine accountability.
Recently, Real Madrid extended an invitation to the girl and her family to attend a match at the Santiago Bernabéu to watch Real Madrid face UD Las Palmas, with a chance to meet the team. Atlético also reached out to offer support to the family in light of the event.
The metro area has a history of racial tensions surrounding matches at Civitas Metropolitano. In past seasons, incidents linked to racial abuse have drawn wide attention as the league and clubs work to address fan behavior and ensure safer atmospheres for families and players alike.