Incident at the entrances of Martínez Valero
FC Barcelona issued a statement condemning the “disproportionate use of force” by the National Police against a Blaugrana fan at the entrances of Elche’s Martínez Valero stadium before the La Liga match on Sunday night. According to the club, the police seized an independentist flag when the fan tried to enter the pitch and, immediately afterwards, assaulted him with indiscriminate punches, as shown in images captured by a fan posted on X.
The Estelada: a legal symbol and expression right
Barcelona emphasizes that the Estelada is a legal symbol and that its display constitutes a legitimate exercise of free expression, “it cannot be considered an incitement to hatred or violence.” The club laments that, once again, police officers confiscated Estelada flags from Blaugrana supporters and reminds that the Estelada does not constitute a provocation to violence.
Support for the fan and possible future action
The club states it is “available to the detained fan and his family to offer any support they may need.” Moreover, Barça reserves the right to take actions it deems necessary to defend the integrity, rights and freedom of expression of its members and supporters, both at Camp Nou and at rival teams’ stadiums.
Club’s reaction and context
The FC Barcelona communiqué highlights that the detention procedure of the fan was “disproportionate and lacking the necessary congruence and timeliness in the use of force.” The club reaffirms its stance of defending its followers’ rights and its commitment to free expression, noting that the Estelada is a legitimate symbol and not a provocation.
Conclusion
Barcelona has publicly rejected the police action and offered support to the fan and his family. The club also makes clear that it reserves the right to act to protect the rights of its members and supporters wherever similar incidents may recur.
