No menu items!

COSTA RICA'S LEADING ENGLISH LANGUAGE NEWSPAPER

HomeCosta RicaRacism Allegations Mar Costa Rican Cup Final

Racism Allegations Mar Costa Rican Cup Final

Liga Deportiva Alajuelense’s soccer player Freddy Góndola denounced racist insults by Saprissa captain Mariano Torres during the cup final match played on November 18.

After scoring, the Panamanian player passed through the center of the field, where Los Morados player Mariano Torres was, who according to Góndola insulted him because of his skin color, and an argument was formed with the referee who could not confirm the complaint of racism.

“When I scored the goal, Mariano Torres said a racist insult to me. My skin color should not be a reason for an insult unless he calls me a black monkey shitter. We know that we do not control the fans, but the captain of the other team insulted me,” said Góndola a day after the title.

The team announced their unwavering support for the player and expected an investigation.

“We understand the gravity of the allegations made by Freddy and we support his courage in speaking out against racism. The easy option for him would have been to keep quiet and continue to enjoy the goal celebration,” Alajuelense said through a press release.

“At this moment, we want to emphasize our commitment to the investigation process that must be carried out by the responsible entities, actively collaborating to clarify the facts and to ensure that there are exemplary sanctions,” the club added.

Saprissa Denies Racism

On the other hand, Saprissa also defended its player, pointing out that the internal investigation supports the version of Torres, who denies the accusations of Góndola.

“The institution will support its captain in all instances where it is appropriate to do so after verifying his word and reiterates its commitment and total repudiation against any act of racism but calls to maintain respect and seriousness when dealing with such sensitive issues with accusations devoid of evidence,” said Deportivo Saprissa.

Mariano Torres categorically denies having uttered racist insults in the final of the Cup Tournament, while nearby players claim not to have heard any racist insults.

“I did not say a racist slur to Góndola, that is false. I have never been and never will be a racist. I will not refer any more to the subject and to all this circus that they are putting together without evidence or witnesses,” said Mariano Torres, captain of Saprissa.

Trending Now

Costa Rica Loses Ocean Award Amid Shark Conservation Controversy

Following recent statements by Costa Rica’s Minister of Environment, Franz Tattenbach, international organizations Fins Attached in association with the Rob Stewart Sharkwater Foundation, have...

Costa Rica’s Olympic Hero Claudia Poll Alleges Abuse by Famed Swim Coach

Claudia Poll, Costa Rica's only Olympic gold medalist, and two other former swimmers from the country, alleged on Monday that they suffered psychological, physical,...

Illegal Airstrip Allegedly Built in Costa Rica’s Gandoca-Manzanillo Refuge

The Limón branch of the Environmental Prosecutor's Office is investigating the alleged construction of an airstrip inside the Gandoca-Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge, as well...

Costa Rica Faces Investment Setback Amid Rising Crime and Infrastructure Failures

Costa Rica’s growing insecurity, declining education system, and persistent infrastructure deficiencies are severely weakening the country’s competitiveness as a destination for foreign direct investment...

Strong Earthquake Shakes Panama’s Pacific Coast, No Damage Reported

A strong earthquake struck off Panama's Pacific coast today, rattling the region but causing no reported injuries or destruction. Seismologists pegged the magnitude at...

Gisele Bündchen’s Summer Getaway in Costa Rica’s Santa Teresa

Supermodel Gisele Bündchen spent late June in Costa Rica, soaking up the sun and sand in Santa Teresa with her partner, Joaquim Valente, and...
spot_img
Costa Rica Tours
Costa Rica Coffee Maker Chorreador
Costa Rica Coffee Maker Chorreador
Costa Rica Travel Insurance
Costa Rica Rocking Chait
Costa Rica Travel

Latest News from Costa Rica