Lanzarote's soccer is going through one of its darkest moments, with recent episodes of violence and racism that tarnish the spirit of the sport and leave a question in the air: are we allowing soccer to become a battlefield?
Last February 14, (yes, Valentine's Day!) the match between PDC and Valterra not only ended in a physical aggression, but unleashed a conflict between players and fans, with an intervention of the local police to calm tempers. To this unfortunate event is added the brawl between Marítima and Victoria on February 23, which involved both players and fans, with accusations of racism that only aggravate the already deteriorated image of local soccer.
In the match on February 14, instead of sharing hearts and flowers, the players decided to celebrate the day in a somewhat peculiar way: with blows. An episode that, without a doubt, deserves to be described as "love for the jersey taken to its most... physical version." The fans were not satisfied with watching the game; they wanted a good dose of punch and not precisely in the goals.
Is this the model we want to transmit to young people? At the moment, soccer in Lanzarote is facing a crisis of values that goes beyond sports. Racist attacks and physical aggressions are not only a stain on the history of local soccer, but a warning sign about the lack of education and respect in the sport.
But there is an opportunity to change this, and it goes through sports subsidies. Year after year, the City Council of Arrecife launches its call for economic aid to promote grassroots sports, but with a great void: sportsmanship and civic values are not rewarded. How is it possible that exemplary behavior is not considered a key criterion for receiving support? "What is the point of winning if respect is lost?"
Instead of waiting for more violent incidents, it is time for the administration to take action. Incorporating sportsmanship criteria in the call for subsidies would be a fundamental step to eradicate violence and racism from Lanzarote's soccer. Economically rewarding entities and clubs that promote respect and coexistence should be a priority.
The solution is in our hands. By incorporating awards for sportsmanship in sports subsidies, a clear message would be sent to players, coaches and fans: respect and coexistence should be as important as the final score. Lanzarote's soccer has the power to be a role model. We just need to have the courage to reward what really matters.
"Sportsmanship is the real triumph", and it is not just about winning matches. Rewarding values such as respect, inclusion and coexistence will not only improve the sporting environment, but will send a clear message to future generations that soccer is a space for equality and mutual respect.
Violence and racism cannot continue to be part of the game. It is time for Lanzarote to become an example of clean and respectful soccer, where not only is won on the scoreboard, but also in human values.