Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal says he has faced racism countless times, often because people fail to recognise that their words or actions are offensive.
Earlier this year, the Spanish Observatory on Racism and Xenophobia, a government body, reported that the 19-year-old and Real Madrid winger Vinicius Jr received the most online racist abuse in Spain during the final three months of 2025.
Yamal was one of several Barcelona players subjected to racist abuse during the October 2024 El Clasico against Real Madrid at the Bernabeu.
Speaking to broadcaster Movistar, the winger, who played a role in Spain’s World Cup victory in July, explained that racism had been a recurring part of his journey to prominence.
“It has happened countless times. People can behave in racist ways without even understanding that they are doing so,” he said.
“Many remarks and gestures are racist, yet those responsible may not recognise them as such.”
He added: “Simply describing me as Black does not upset me because that is who I am.
“What matters is the intention behind it and whether the person is trying to insult or harm me.
“If someone has bought a ticket to watch me play, I will not allow their disrespect to make me lose my temper.”
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