Lucas França denounces racism in volleyball: Enough of intolerance.

A lamentable episode of racism has marred the sports scene in Portugal following a volleyball match between Sporting de Espinho and Benfica, where Lucas França, the Brazilian athlete of the red-and-whites, was subjected to racial insults. The incident not only overshadowed Benfica’s 3-1 victory, which secured their place in the semi-finals of the championship, but also highlighted the urgent need to discuss and eradicate racism in sports.

Lucas França, in a powerful statement on social media, expressed his outrage and reflections on the incident. “As an athlete, I know very well that I am a product displayed in a showcase, available to the public for entertainment. And, being in that showcase, I am subject to applause and criticism – that is part of my life. However, when those ‘criticisms’ involve the color of my skin or my hair, they cease to be criticisms and become racism,” the player stated, making it clear that the line between criticism and discrimination is irreversibly crossed when it comes to racial issues.

The volleyball player also explained that he was raised to respect everyone, reiterating the importance of reacting with dignity. “In Christ, I also learned not to repay aggression in kind. However, yesterday, that aggression crossed a line,” emphasized França, who chose not to react aggressively but to draw attention to the situation, hoping that those responsible for organizing the event would take action. He praised the promptness of the referees and the table officials in acting immediately, despite the difficulty in identifying the aggressor. “Unfortunately, among so many people present, it was not possible to find him – but those who did know what they did,” he stressed.

The athlete also expressed his gratitude for the support he received from Benfica, his team, and the coaching staff, highlighting that “there is no more room for this – such attitudes impoverish sport.” He called for the federation to take concrete measures to prevent similar incidents from occurring, not only in Espinho but in any venue in Portugal.

This incident serves as a wake-up call for everyone involved in sports, reaffirming that racism has no place in any discipline and that everyone has a responsibility to promote respect and inclusion. The fight against racial discrimination continues, and it is essential for the sports community to unite to eradicate such unacceptable behaviors.

This article first appeared on [Apito Final](https://apitofinal.pt/).