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Rabat – Moroccan international Omar El Hilali was subjected to racist abuse during Espanyol’s 2-2 draw against Elche in La Liga.
The incident occurred late in the match, when Elche striker Rafa Mir allegedly made a derogatory remark to the Moroccan defender. According to reports, Mir told El Hilali, “You came here by boat,” a phrase often used to insult immigrants from North Africa.
𝗣𝗥𝗢𝗧𝗢𝗖𝗢𝗟𝗘 𝗔𝗡𝗧𝗜-𝗥𝗔𝗖𝗜𝗦𝗧𝗘 𝗔𝗖𝗧𝗜𝗩𝗘́ 𝗘𝗡 𝗟𝗜𝗚𝗔 !
Omar El Hilali 🇲🇦 s’est tourné vers l’arbitre pour dénoncer des propos à caractère raciste attribués à Rafa Mir 🇪🇸😵💫#NoToRacism pic.twitter.com/OWlVXBeVi8
— FRMF Xtra (@FRMFXtra) March 1, 2026
The game was stopped for several minutes after the referee activated La Liga’s anti-racism protocol. Stadium announcements confirmed the measure, while cameras focused on Mir, who denied the accusation on the pitch.
The comment sparked outrage across Spanish football and beyond. El Hilali, born in Morocco and raised in Spain, has been seen as one of Espanyol’s promising defenders.
The abuse he faced shows the ongoing problem of racism in the sport, especially in Spain, where players of African and immigrant backgrounds are still targeted with offensive language.
The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) issued a statement expressing full solidarity with El Hilali. The federation strongly condemned all forms of racism and discrimination, stressing its unconditional support for the player.
It also reaffirmed its commitment to the values of respect, tolerance, and fair play, calling for these principles to be upheld in every competition to protect players and preserve their dignity.
The controversy adds to Mir’s troubled off-pitch record. The striker was arrested for sexual assault in late 2024 and remains free on bail while continuing to play professionally.
He was also accused of rape last season, raising serious questions about his conduct. The latest incident has intensified calls for Spanish football authorities to investigate and take firm action.
Espanyol has not yet released an official statement, but the case is expected to be reviewed by La Liga and disciplinary bodies. Anti-racism groups in Spain have also demanded accountability, insisting that such behavior cannot be tolerated in professional football.
