After Real Madrid’s Supercopa Victory, Mallorca Players’ Wives Report Harassment in Saudi Arabia
The Spanish Supercopa, a prestigious football event, took a dark turn this year as reports of harassment overshadowed the sporting spectacle. Following Real Madrid’s 3-0 victory over RCD Mallorca in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, the focus has shifted from the pitch to the disturbing experiences of the players’ families.
According to Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo, Cristina Palavra, wife of Mallorca midfielder Dani Rodríguez, was among those who faced harassment outside the King Abdullah Sports City stadium.Palavra described the incident to Balearic television station IB3: “We were traveling without security personnel and were harassed.They took photos of us at close range. (…) We had no one to protect us.”
The ordeal was not isolated. Natália Kalužová, wife of Mallorca goalkeeper Dominik Greif, also reportedly endured similar treatment. The lack of security for the families has sparked outrage, with many questioning the event’s organization and safety measures.
The incident gained traction on social media after Spanish media company El Partidazo de COPE shared a video on Instagram showing fans holding up their phones to record the women. Cristina Martinez,a user who reposted the video,expressed her support: “Cristina Palavra,our full support against these acts. Shameful and unbearable!!! No words.”
Dani Rodríguez and Cristina Palavra amplified the issue by sharing the video on their Instagram stories. Another user shared Palavra’s IB3 interview, writing, “I agree with her words,” which palavra reposted. The Spanish radio station El Larguero also highlighted the incident, stating, “The wives of Dani Rodríguez and Greif were harassed by local fans at the exit of the King abdullah Stadium.”
this incident has cast a shadow over the Supercopa, raising questions about the safety of players’ families at international sporting events. As the football community rallies behind the affected women, the focus now shifts to ensuring such incidents are prevented in the future.
| Key Details |
|——————|
| Event: Spanish Supercopa 2025 |
| Location: King Abdullah Sports City, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia |
| Incident: Harassment of Mallorca players’ wives |
| Affected Individuals: Cristina Palavra (Dani Rodríguez’s wife), Natália Kalužová (Dominik Greif’s wife) |
| Response: outcry on social media, calls for improved security |
The Supercopa, meant to celebrate football excellence, has instead highlighted the need for better protection and respect for all attendees. As the story unfolds, the football world awaits a response from organizers to ensure such incidents are never repeated.
Addressing Harassment at the Spanish Supercopa in Saudi Arabia: An expert Perspective
Following the recent Spanish Supercopa in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, reports of harassment against the wives of RCD Mallorca players have sparked widespread outrage. The incident has raised critical questions about the safety and security measures at international sporting events. To delve deeper into this issue, we spoke with Dr. Leila Al-Hassan, a renowned expert in sports event management and gender safety in international contexts. Dr. Al-Hassan shares her insights on what went wrong and how such incidents can be prevented in the future.
Interview with Dr. Leila Al-Hassan
Senior Editor: Dr. Al-Hassan, thank you for joining us. The recent harassment incident at the Spanish Supercopa has shocked many. From your perspective, what went wrong in terms of security and organization?
Dr. Al-Hassan: Thank you for having me.This incident highlights a meaningful oversight in the planning and execution of security protocols. When hosting international events, especially in culturally diverse settings, it’s crucial to have a thorough safety plan that includes not just the players but also their families and other attendees. The lack of security personnel for the families outside the stadium was a glaring failure. Organizers must ensure that all attendees, regardless of their role, are protected from harassment and other forms of misconduct.
Senior Editor: What steps can event organizers take to prevent such incidents in the future?
Dr. Al-Hassan: First and foremost, organizers need to conduct thorough risk assessments tailored to the specific location and cultural context. This includes understanding local norms and potential risks to attendees.Second,they must implement robust security measures,such as dedicated personnel for VIPs and their families,clear communication channels for reporting incidents,and strict enforcement of anti-harassment policies. there should be a zero-tolerance approach to harassment, with immediate consequences for perpetrators.
senior Editor: how can international sporting events balance cultural differences while ensuring the safety of all attendees?
Dr. Al-Hassan: This is a delicate balance, but it’s achievable with proper planning and collaboration. Organizers should work closely with local authorities and cultural experts to design safety protocols that respect local customs while upholding universal standards of respect and dignity. Such as, providing cultural sensitivity training for security staff and creating safe zones for families can go a long way in preventing incidents like this.
Senior Editor: The incident has sparked a significant outcry on social media. How critically important is public pressure in driving change in these situations?
Dr. Al-Hassan: Public pressure is incredibly powerful. It holds organizers accountable and forces them to address systemic issues. Social media amplifies voices that might otherwise go unheard,and in this case,it has brought global attention to the need for better safety measures. However, it’s also important for governing bodies, like FIFA and UEFA, to take proactive steps rather than waiting for public outrage to force their hand.
Senior Editor: What message would you like to send to the families affected by this incident?
Dr.Al-Hassan: My heart goes out to Cristina Palavra, Natália Kalužová, and their families. No one should have to endure such treatment, especially while supporting their loved ones at a sporting event. I hope this incident serves as a wake-up call for the football community to prioritize the safety and dignity of all attendees. Change is possible, but it requires collective action and accountability.
Senior Editor: Thank you, Dr. Al-Hassan, for your valuable insights. We hope this conversation contributes to meaningful change in the world of sports.
Dr. al-Hassan: Thank you for raising awareness on this critical issue. Let’s work together to ensure that future events are safe and inclusive for everyone.
