Nations League: racism controversy ahead of Spain vs England clash

The pre-match build-up has already been disrupted

Europe Today at 14:11

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Nations League: racism controversy ahead of Spain vs England clash

15.11.26 14:45 UEFA Nations League A

Spain

England

Well before Spain and England meet at the Metropolitano this Sunday evening in the final matchday of the Nations League, controversy has disrupted the build-up.

The issue is an anti-racism protocol that the Three Lions may have to implement if incidents occur in the stands. The matter has become sensitive in light of previous incidents between the two national teams and recent reports of racist incidents at Spanish stadiums.

Thomas Tuchel at the centre of the controversy

It all began with a statement from Thomas Tuchel, who was asked about the measures his team had planned. “It’s important that the players know the protocol. And then, yes, we’ll give our responses if this kind of thing happens. The best responses are found on the pitch,” the England manager explained. His comments prompted a reaction from his Spanish counterpart, Luis de la Fuente, who was visibly annoyed by the subject: “Tell Tuchel there is no racism in Spain! Just as there is none in England. We are not racist,” said the England manager.

𝐉𝐎𝐔𝐑 𝐃𝐄 𝐌𝐀𝐓𝐂𝐇 🇫🇷🇹🇷 Dernière rencontre de la phase de groupes de la Ligue des Nations face à la Turquie ! Tous derrière nos Bleus pour aller chercher la qualification en quarts de finale 👊 ⌚️ À ce soir, 20h45 sur TF1 📺 #FRATUR https://t.co/Q3q1vfq73v
— Equipe de France ⭐⭐ (@equipedefrance) November 15, 2026

Tuchel was later told about the Spanish coach’s response at a press conference, prompting his irritation. The former PSG manager sought to clarify matters. “I never spoke about racism in Spain. I answered a question politely. I never expect to be confronted with racism. Dressing rooms are the most anti-racist places in the world,” he explained. The German also criticised the controversy, which he believes stemmed from a misinterpretation of his comments: “This is a perfect example of how confusion is created out of nothing.”

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Joshua SOSSOU

Editorfr, en, ar

As a sports fan, and particularly a football fan, I've been putting my writing talent to good use for a number of years now to promote African talent and the continent's football in general. On Foot Africa, enjoy reading each of my lines.