Beja basketball spectator banned for racist insults to referee

A man has been sanctioned by the Authority for the Prevention and Combat of Violence in Sport (APCVD) following racist insults directed at a referee during a youth basketball game in Beja, Portugal.

The incident occurred on January 25, 2026, during a sub-14 women's match between Beja Basket Clube and Grupo Desportivo e Recreativo André Resende. The individual, a man approximately 40 years old and the father of an athlete, directed the insults near the end of the game.

Although the match was a non-professional event with reduced risk and no police presence, the APCVD launched an investigation after the incident was reported publicly. Through image analysis, authorities identified the perpetrator. The sanctions include a 1,750 euro fine and a 12-month ban from entering sports venues. The decision is subject to legal appeal.