FIFA has launched a formal investigation into an incident involving Real Madrid defender Antonio Rudiger and Pachuca player Gustavo Cabral during a recent Club World Cup match. The altercation occurred toward the end of the game, prompting Rudiger to approach the referee visibly upset.
According to reports, Rudiger accused Cabral of making a racist remark. The situation was serious enough for the referee to signal a potential case of racism, leading to an official review by FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee.
Cabral, however, denied using any racist language. He explained that he had called Rudiger a “coward” in Spanish and claimed the phrase might have been misunderstood due to its similarity to an offensive term in another context.
Following the match, Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso expressed support for Rudiger, stating that the team believes him and emphasizing that racism has no place in football. He added that if the allegation proves to be true, appropriate action must be taken.
The 39-year-old Argentine defender stood by his explanation, insisting that his words were taken out of context.
FIFA’s investigation is ongoing as the football world awaits clarity on what exactly transpired during the heated exchange.