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An investigation has been opened in Spain following an alleged racist remark directed at Moroccan defender Omar El Hilali during the recent league match between RCD Espanyol and Elche CF.
The incident took place during the second half of the game last Sunday and reportedly involved Elche striker Rafa Mir. The disciplinary committee of the Royal Spanish Football Federation has decided not to issue an immediate sanction but has opened an investigation to clarify what happened.
The situation unfolded in the 78th minute of the match. El Hilali approached the referee to report that Mir had directed an offensive comment toward him during an exchange on the pitch.
According to the referee’s report, El Hilali—who was born in Spain to Moroccan parents and represents Morocco internationally—alleged that Mir had directed an anti-immigrant insult towards him. The report stated: “In the 78th minute, Espanyol player Omar El Hilali tells me that Rafa Mir approached him and said, ‘You came here on a small boat.’”
Although the refereeing team did not hear the remark themselves, the referee decided to activate the anti-racism protocol. The match was paused for about three minutes while the situation was addressed inside the stadium before play resumed.
The game eventually ended in a 2–2 draw, with Mir scoring a late penalty for Elche.
One of the main difficulties in the investigation is the lack of clear evidence from the broadcast footage.
Video images show the two players speaking during the moment in question, but Mir appears to cover his mouth while talking, making it impossible to confirm what was said.
As a result, the federation’s disciplinary committee has decided to gather more information before making any decision. Officials are expected to review available footage and collect statements from those involved.
🚨 Esta es el acta del partido @elchecf 🆚 @RCDEspanyol
🗣️ “En el minuto 78, el jugador del Espanyol, Omar El Hilali, me dice que Rafa Mir se dirigió a él diciéndole ‘viniste en patera'”#LALIGAenDAZN ⚽️ pic.twitter.com/y2HAAJQELP
— DAZN Fútbol (@DAZNFutbol) March 1, 2026
Rafa Mir denies accusation and support from Moroccan federation
Rafa Mir has denied the accusation, insisting that he did not make any racist comment during the exchange.
The striker reportedly said he used a different phrase during the heated moment and rejected claims that his words were related to immigration or racism.
For now, the case remains open while Spanish football authorities continue their review.
The incident has also drawn a reaction from the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, which expressed strong support for El Hilali. The federation said it stands firmly against racism and discrimination in football and backed the Moroccan international as the investigation continues.
At this stage, no disciplinary measures have been taken against Rafa Mir. However, the investigation launched by the Spanish federation aims to determine exactly what happened and whether any punishment will follow.
European football is facing yet another racism scandal, coming right as the sport is in a full-blown crisis over racist behavior. From the recent Champions League controversy where Vinícius Júnior was targeted by a Benfica player to the new investigation into Omar El Hilali in La Liga, it’s clear that this is a global issue.
Read also: ‘Vinicius Law’ to Be Implemented as IFAB Approves Major Anti-Racism Rule
