FIFA Opens Investigation Into Alleged Racist Remark By Pachuca’s Gustavo Cabral (image-X/RealBrasil_BR)

FIFA had opened an investigation into Pachuca’s Gustavo Cabral following the allegation of a racist comment made against Real Madrid’s Antonio Rudiger, the footballing body had announced on Tuesday. Gustavo Cabral is the Argentine centre-back for the Mexican side.

The incident occurred at the Bank of America Stadium during the match on Sunday. “Following an assessment of the match reports, the FIFA Disciplinary Committee has opened proceedings against CF Pachuca player Gustavo Cabral in relation to the incident involving him and Real Madrid’s Antonio Rudiger during the FIFA Club World Cup game played in Charlotte on 22 June,” FIFA said on Tuesday.

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Following the late-game foul, Cabral allegedly directed a racist slur against Rudiger. According to witnesses and media reports, the term used was “monkey”; however, he denied the allegation. FIFA immediately activated its anti-racism protocol, resulting in a brief suspension of play.

Since there was no announcement made through the stadium PA system or video boards, the fans at the stadium were completely puzzled about what had occurred.

In the post-match conference, Xabi Alonso expressed unwavering support for Rudiger and called for a thorough investigation by FIFA. “In football there is no tolerance for this, and if it happened, then measures should be taken. This is what Antonio has told us and we believe him. It’s being investigated now.”

Cabral, while speaking after the game, said that his words had been misinterpreted by Rudiger. The Argentine said that he had called the defender a “coward,” with the Spanish phrase he used being similar to another linked to racist abuse.

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Although FIFA had not set any deadline, if Cabral is found guilty, he could face sporting sanctions or other disciplinary actions.