12.04.2026 11:00
Images of Javi Poves, the president of CD Colonia Moscardo in Spain, chasing Muslim football players with ham have sparked significant outrage. The incident, recorded with the words "Eat some ham," has been deemed an Islamophobic act. With Poves having a history of disciplinary issues, a ban of up to 2 years is being considered, while the incident has reignited discussions about racism in the country.
A match played in the Spanish Second Division became the scene of a scandal that will go down in sports history. The moments when CD Colonia Moscardo President Javi Poves chased Muslim players with a piece of ham drew great backlash.
In the footage recorded at the Roman Valero Stadium, Poves can be heard shouting at his players, who do not consume pork for religious reasons, "Eat some ham!" These moments quickly spread on social media, causing outrage.
STRONG REACTION FROM THE SPORTS COMMUNITY
The footage was deemed an Islamophobic and degrading behavior by both fans and the sports world. Many users and sports commentators described the incident as "a clear example of discrimination."
2-YEAR SUSPENSION PENALTY ON THE AGENDA
Following this latest act by Javi Poves, who has previously been in the spotlight for his controversial statements and behaviors, the Spanish Football Federation took action. Considering the accumulated files against Poves, a suspension penalty of up to 2 years is on the agenda.
Poves, a former football player, had previously faced disciplinary investigations due to threats against referees and disputes with opposing players.
RACISM DEBATES FLARE UP AGAIN
The incident reignited discussions about racism and discrimination in sports fields in Spain. This scandal, following similar incidents that occurred in a recent match between Spain and Egypt, further intensified the reactions.
Football circles emphasized that stricter sanctions should be applied against increasing discriminatory behaviors on the fields, while calls for a fundamental change in Spanish football have resurfaced.