Omar El Hilali experienced a serious incident this weekend in La Liga. During the match between Elche and Espanyol Barcelona, held on Sunday, March 1, 2026, which ended in a 2-2 draw, the Moroccan international reported to the referee that he had been subjected to racist remarks during the game.
A match interrupted after the report
The incident occurred in the second half following a tense exchange between El Hilali and Elche striker Rafa Mir. After the Moroccan defender’s complaint, the anti-racism protocol was activated, and the match was briefly interrupted before resuming.
The referee’s report, picked up by the press, mentions El Hilali’s report, while specifying that no member of the officiating team directly heard the alleged words at the time.
The FRMF’s statement
In the wake of the incident, the Royal Moroccan Football Federation issued a statement to show its support for the player. The FRMF expresses its “full solidarity” and “unconditional support” for Omar El Hilali, while firmly condemning any form of racism and discrimination.
“The FRMF expresses its full solidarity and unconditional support for Moroccan international Omar El Hilali.”
The Federation also reiterates its commitment to the values of respect, tolerance, fair play, and rejects discriminatory behaviors both on and off the pitch.
A closely monitored case in Spain
The matter is now expected to be handled by the relevant authorities, as racism remains a recurring issue in Spanish football, with disciplinary procedures relying on official reports, footage, and testimonies.
