Barça: Lamine Yamal recounts the racism he experienced at the Bernabéu

Lamine Yamal has spoken out about the racist insults he was subjected to during the Clásico played at the Santiago Bernabéu in October 2024. The young FC Barcelona striker explains that he has faced racism on numerous occasions, sometimes in more insidious forms.

Invited to speak on Movistar Plus, Lamine Yamal agreed to revisit a particularly significant episode in his young career. During the Clásico in October 2024, which FC Barcelona won convincingly (4-0) at Real Madrid's stadium, the Spanish international was subjected to racist insults from the stands.

For the 19-year-old player, this episode was unfortunately not the first. He claims to have faced racism on numerous occasions, sometimes directly, but also through behaviors that are more difficult to identify.

"People are indirectly racist towards you, but maybe they don't realize it. Lots of comments, lots of looks…," Yamal explained.

The Barcelona player also addressed the images captured in the stands of the Bernabéu after his goal, scored in the 77th minute. He and his teammate Raphinha were then subjected to insults.

"I am black"

Lamine Yamal explained why he had chosen not to respond to the provocations. For him, being singled out by his skin color is not a source of shame.   "I don't mind him calling me black, I am black," he said.

The young striker, however, makes a clear distinction between talking about someone's skin color and the intention behind such a remark. "Whether it's right or wrong is another question, because his comments were insulting," he clarified.

Yamal insists he wants to stay focused on football and not let this type of incident disrupt his performance on the field. He nevertheless refuses to downplay the phenomenon.

"What is wrong can never be accepted," he insisted.

Following the Clásico, several racist insults were recorded in the stands of the Santiago Bernabéu. LaLiga reported the incidents to the authorities. A minor identified as one of the perpetrators was subsequently sanctioned with a one-year stadium ban and 30 hours of community service.