The defendant accused of uttering racist insults at Athletic Club player Iñaki Williams during a match against Espanyol in 2020 has been sentenced to one year in prison and a fine of 1,080 euros. The ruling, issued by the Provincial Court of Barcelona, also includes the prohibition on working in the sports field for four years and on entering football stadiums for two years. The defendant admitted his guilt during a videoconference statement due to health problems, and his lawyer requested the suspension of the prison sentence, as the defendant has no prior criminal record.
The events took place on January 25, 2020, during a sporting encounter at Espanyol's stadium, when a group of spectators chanted racist chants as Williams was being substituted. They simulated gestures and sounds of primates, which, according to the Prosecutor's Office, was intended to offend and degrade the player. This behavior was witnessed by more than 27,000 attendees and received extensive media coverage. The Public Prosecutor's Office and LaLiga, which reported the incident, initially requested a more severe sentence of two years in prison and a higher fine, but an agreement was reached on the penalties imposed, which underscores the need to sanction racism in sport.
Read the full news article on The Country.
