Referee uses anti-racism protocol sign during Club World Cup as FIFA launch investigation into Antonio Rudiger incident

Club World Cup referee Ramon Abatti Abel used the anti-racism protocol after Real Madrid defender Antonio Rudiger said he was racially abused during their clash against Mexican side Pachuca.

In the closing stages of Sunday's game at the Bank of America Stadium, Rudiger clashed with Pachuca captain Gustavo Cabral after the Germany international claimed he had been fouled by the 39-year-old Argentine.

Rudiger proceeded to speak to referee Ramon Abatti Abel, who then crossed his arms to signal the anti-racism protocol.

It is unclear whether the alleged racial abuse was from someone in the crowd or a player, but after the full-time whistle, Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso confirmed that FIFA has launched an investigation into the matter.

Asked if Rudiger had been the victim of racism during the game, Alonso told a press conference: "That's what Rüdiger said, and we believe him. It is important to have zero tolerance in these kinds of situations."

Alonso added: "FIFA now is investigating. That's all I can say."

Back in 2021, when he was playing for Chelsea, Rudiger said "nothing ever really changes" after anti-discrimination campaigns in football.

"There is an investigation, but nothing really happens," he said in an interview with The Players' Tribune. "Every once in a while, we have a big social media campaign, and everybody feels good about themselves, and then we go back to normal.

"Nothing ever really changes. Tell me, why did the press and the fans and the players all come together to stop the Super League in 48 hours, but when there is obvious racist abuse at a football stadium or online, it is always “complicated”?

"Maybe because it is not just a few idiots in the stands. Maybe because it goes a lot deeper."

Following an unanimous approval at the 74th FIFA Congress last year, a global crossed arms gesture to signal racist abuse is now part of football protocol at FIFA tournaments.

By crossing their hands at the wrists, players can signal directly to the referee that they are being targeted by racist abuse, prompting the referee to start the three-step procedure.

Last week, campaigners criticised FIFA after it appeared to drop anti-racism messaging at the Club World Cup.

Piara Powar, who is the executive director of campaign group body Fare, said: "It is disappointing that it appears there will be no anti-discrimination messaging throughout the Club World Cup.

"In the past such messaging has been well received by supporters, players and civil society. It's more than a shame that a message of inclusion can't be broadcast to the world, and that those of us who are stakeholders in this area haven't been informed.

"We know that the US government is volatile and the need for pragmatism is a factor, but the iteration of consistent and progressive values by FIFA is so important."