The Spanish football federation’s (RFEF) has been criticised by the country’s Sports Council (CSD), for its response to the incidents of racist abuse that blighted the recent friendly international against England.
“Some people have tried to minimise the incidents,” Rafael Blanco, director general of the government-run CSD, told Spanish television station Telemadrid on Thursday.
“But what happened is intolerable in a modern and democratic state like Spain and has had a damaging effect on Spain’s image in the world and on Madrid’s bid for the 2012 Olympics.”
Last month’s friendly international between Spain and England was marred by racist abuse and chants aimed at England’s black players by large sections of the crowd at the Bernabeu.
The run-up to the match had been overshadowed by racist remarks made by coach Luis Aragones about French striker Thierry Henry.
“Aragones’s declarations were ill-advised, incorrect and inopportune,” said Blanco. “He has recognised that and now it is up to the Federation to take action.
“We will be monitoring the situation closely and will be asking the Federation to get involved.”
