Atlético Madrid have been ordered to partially close their south stand for two matches by the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) after Athletic Club player Nico Williams suffered racist abuse in Saturday’s LaLiga game.
Referee Juan Martinez Munuera stopped the match in the 36th minute as part of LaLiga’s protocol against racism after he heard abuse directed at the 21-year-old Spain international, who was born in Pamplona to Ghanaian parents.
Atletico, who did not immediately respond when contacted by Reuters for comment, have also been fined €20,000 ($21,360). They have 10 days to appeal.
The RFEF said in a statement on Tuesday that the closed area in the stands must display a visible message condemning violent, racist, xenophobic and intolerant acts in football and supporting fair play.
A few minutes after he was abused, Williams scored and ran in front of the south stand tapping his arm in reference to his skin colour.
