Gustavo Cabral Responds After Antonio Rudiger’s Racism Allegation

Gustavo Cabral of Pachuca has provided his version of events following accusations from Real Madrid’s Antonio Rudiger, who alleged he was subjected to a racist insult during a recent match.

The incident took place in injury time during the Group H fixture in Charlotte, where Rudiger appeared visibly upset and confronted the referee, Ramon Abatti Abel, after exchanging words with Cabral.

Reports suggest that Cabral allegedly called Rudiger a racist insult in Spanish, translating to a highly offensive term. However, Cabral denied using any racist language. Instead, he claimed he called Rudiger a “cagon de mierda,” meaning “f***ing coward,” in Argentine slang.

“There was nothing racist. I called him a f***ing coward, as we say in Argentina,” Cabral stated. “There was a struggle; I received a kick, and we argued. But nothing more.”

The referee responded to the situation by performing the ‘No Racism Gesture’ — crossing his arms — as part of FIFA’s protocol for anti-racism. The gesture signifies that an investigation is underway, with escalating responses only if the behavior continues or worsens.

Madrid’s manager, Xabi Alonso, confirmed that Rudiger reported the insult and emphasized the club’s support for the player, calling the accusation “unacceptable.”

Following the incident, Madrid secured their first win of the tournament with a 3-1 victory, thanks to goals from Jude Bellingham, Arda Guler, and Federico Valverde, despite an early red card to Raul Asencio.

Alonso, in his first victory as Madrid’s manager, expressed optimism for their next match against RB Salzburg, aiming to top the group.