Football authorities in Real Federación Española de Fútbol have opened a formal investigation into an alleged racist insult made during a league match between Elche CF and RCD Espanyol.
The case concerns Elche forward Rafa Mir, who is accused of directing an insult towards Espanyol defender Omar El Hilali. According to the referee’s official report, the player allegedly said: “You came here in a boat”.
The match official, Youssef Ghalich Abitziya, did not personally hear the comment but included it in his report after it was raised. That report triggered disciplinary proceedings and the appointment of an investigator to gather evidence.
Mir could face a suspension of up to ten matches under Article 105 of the federation’s disciplinary code, which classifies racist behaviour as a very serious offence. Fines ranging from 602 to 3,006 euros may also be imposed.
The investigation will review audio recordings from stadium microphones and video footage, including possible lip-reading analysis, to establish what was said.
During the game, the referee activated the first step of the FIFA anti racism protocol.
The case comes as Spanish football continues to tighten its response to racist abuse. In recent years, courts have handed down convictions linked to incidents in matches involving top players, including Real Madrid winger Vinicius Jr.
The disciplinary committee is due to meet later this week to review the initial evidence. The outcome will be closely watched in Morocco.
