Real Madrid investigate alleged Yamal racist abuse

Real Madrid have opened an investigation into alleged racist abuse aimed at Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal during Saturday's El Clasico at the Bernabeu.

Videos on social media appear to show the 17-year-old Spaniard being subjected to taunts by a section of home fans as he celebrated his 77th-minute goal by pointing to his name on the back of his shirt.

Robert Lewandowski scored twice and Raphinha completed the scoring as the visitors cruised to a 4-0 win to take them six points above their rivals at the top of La Liga.

A Real Madrid statement read: "Real Madrid strongly condemns any kind of behaviour involving racism, xenophobia or violence in football and sport, and deeply regrets the insults that a few fans uttered last night in one of the corners of the stadium.

"Real Madrid has opened an investigation in order to locate and identify the perpetrators of these deplorable and despicable insults so that the appropriate disciplinary and judicial measures can be taken."

The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) and La Liga have taken steps to tackle an increase in racist abuse with measures including partial stadium closures.

Last week, four people were arrested over allegedly conducting an online campaign of hate and racism against Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr.

The campaign is said to have encouraged supporters to racially abuse the 24-year-old Brazilian, asking them to wear black face masks to avoid being identified, police confirmed.

Three Valencia fans were sentenced to eight months in prison in June for abusing the Madrid forward at a match in May 2023.