Conmebol president says racism is staining football

The president of CONMEBOL, Alejandro Domínguez, criticized this Wednesday (5) the acts of racism and violence that he considers that “are staining” football and its values, and made an appeal for there to be no more demonstrations of this type.

In a speech during the draw for the round of 16 clashes of the Libertadores Cup and the Copa Sudamericana, the Paraguayan official highlighted the theme that he claims “affects everyone” and emphasized values ​​such as team play, tolerance and coexistence that football teaches.

“Unfortunately, the spectacle of football and these good values ​​are being undermined by some who don’t understand that we have to know how to live, coexist and tolerate in this environment, especially in football,” said Domínguez, who did not mention specific incidents.

“Football is not violence, in football, racism is not accepted. There is no place for these people, neither in stadiums nor on the field of play,” he added.

The Paraguayan assured that Conmebol “does not want to, nor does it exist to punish” and indicated that it is a job for the entire community.

“It’s up to you, the public, the organizers, but also all the players on the field of play. Let’s show once and for all that we are the best on and off the field of play, without violence and without racism,” said Domínguez.

Last week, Atlético Mineiro demanded measures from Conmebol, for racist incidents that occurred during a game with Libertad, in Asunción, for Libertadores.

At the time, goalkeeper Everson was called “monkey” by fans of the Paraguayan team.

The Galo board said they had taken pictures of the moment the insults were being made and that the video was handed over to the Conmebol delegate.

Recently, the president of Santos, Andrés Rueda, defended that Brazilian clubs decide together for the withdrawal of teams from the field, in matches in Brazil or abroad, in which cases of racism occur.