Police arrest fan for hate crime after racist abuse of Kylian Mbappe during Real Madrid clash with Oviedo

An Oviedo supporter was arrested after directing racist abuse at France captain Mbappe during Real Madrid’s clash with Real Oviedo on August 24 at the Carlos Tartiere stadium, according to Marca. In the 37th minute, just after Mbappe scored the opening goal, the fan was seen making monkey gestures and noises from the home stand. The National Police confirmed that the individual was identified through images and videos broadcast on television and circulated across social media. He now faces charges for a crime against moral integrity and a hate crime. Following his arrest, the man was brought before Oviedo’s Court of Instruction No. 1.

This case adds to the growing scrutiny on Spanish football’s handling of racism inside stadiums. High-profile players such as Vinicius Junior have repeatedly been subjected to racist abuse in recent seasons, while Athletic Club striker Inaki Williams was targeted in a case that ended with a prison sentence for the offender. La Liga, meanwhile, continues to face criticism for reacting too slowly and inconsistently to such episodes.

Beyond the individual arrest, the recent incident highlights both the persistence of racism in Spanish football and the institutional push to make examples of offenders through legal and financial punishment.

The Professional Football League reported this particular incident immediately after the match, noting that the footage gained wider attention because of its spread on television and social media. Police analysis of those images and recordings made the swift arrest possible.

The fan not only faces criminal charges but also an administrative sanction under Spain’s Law against Violence, Racism, Xenophobia and Intolerance in Sport. The penalties are severe, fines ranging from €60,000 to €650,000, along with stadium bans. Additionally, the case has been referred to the Delegate Prosecutor’s Office for Criminal Protection for Equality and Against Discrimination, which specialises in hate crimes. According to Spain’s Penal Code, the offence could carry a prison sentence of up to three years.

This incident has arrived at a sensitive moment for Spanish football. La Liga has promised a “zero tolerance” approach, but cases continue to surface, sparking questions over whether punishments are effective enough to deter future offenders. For Mbappe, who is one of world football’s most prominent stars, it also echoes a troubling pattern seen with other Black players in Spain.

The case will now move through the Spanish courts, with the possibility of both criminal sentencing and heavy financial sanctions. If convicted, the fan could serve up to three years in prison and be barred from attending sporting events. For La Liga and Spanish authorities, the pressure is mounting to demonstrate that tackling racism is more than symbolic, concrete measures, consistent enforcement, and stronger deterrents will be required to restore credibility.