Wydad Athletic Club strongly condemn IR Tanger's behavior & denounce racism following alleged abuse towards Rhulani Mokwena in Botola Pro League game

Wydad Athletic Club has released a condemning statement following alleged racial comments directed at coach Rhulani Mokwena by a member of Ittihad Tanger's technical team.

The South African coach reportedly experienced racist remarks from an IR Tanger official after Wydad's 2-2 draw against Tanger in a league match on Saturday.

Following the incident, the leadership of Wydad has bravely spoken out against racism, clearly communicating their displeasure with the shameful experience of being subjected to racial insults by their opponents. 

"Wydad Athletic Club strongly condemns the unfortunate events that followed the final whistle of the match between our team and Ittihad Tanger Club. Our coach, Mr. Mokwena, was subjected to unacceptable racist behaviour by a member of the Ittihad Tanger Club staff, who was not part of the staff present on the pitch, but entered it after the end of the match, where his abusive and racist words towards the coach led to some skirmishes between players," reads the club's statement. 

"Wydad Athletic Club also condemns Ittihad Tangier Club’s attempt to divert attention from this racist behaviour by directing public opinion towards other matters and ignoring the essence of the problem, which is unethical behaviour by one of its members.

"We consider these attempts to be an evasion of responsibility and inconsistent with the sporting values that should bring together clubs in fair competition. In this context, we confirm that the Wydad Athletic Club welcomed the Ittihad Tangier team and its officials in an exceptional manner, and responded to all their demands with all respect and generosity," Wydad continued. 

"Morocco has always been and will remain a land of hospitality and brotherhood, bringing people together in a spirit of respect and coexistence, values that have been the source of our country’s strength and identity throughout history. Such racist acts have no place in our country or on our pitches, and we are committed to preserving the spirit of fair and honest competition," the club added. 

"While we affirm our categorical rejection of such acts, we call on the relevant authorities to take the necessary measures to ensure the integrity of the game from everything that harms it." 

After the match, an altercation occurred between Wydad's players and technical staff and Tanger's staff members and players. 

Although Mokwena was the one who allegedly faced discriminatory words, he had to step in and defuse the situation once a fight erupted later that night. 

The Moroccan powerhouse, guided by the 37-year-old mentor, currently holds the sixth spot in the Botola Pro League standings, having gathered 15 points from 10 matches

The Moroccan Football Federation is expected to delve into the matter and possibly implement any required actions rightfully so. 

On the other hand, IR Tanger's head coach, Hilal Et-Tair, has confirmed that his team will investigate the issue and take necessary measures.