Thomas Tuchel to Outline Anti-Racism Protocols Ahead of England's Madrid Return

Thomas Tuchel is set to remind his squad of official England anti-racism protocols ahead of their upcoming fixture against Spain in Madrid. The fixture marks a significant geographical milestone, as it is the first time the national team will play in the Spanish capital since a notorious encounter two decades ago.

The 2004 Bernabéu Incident

The history between the two sides in Madrid is heavily marred by the events of 2004. During that encounter at the Bernabéu, Spain recorded a 1-0 victory. However, the match was completely ruined by racist abuse directed at England's black players from sections of the stands.

The fallout from that night directly dictated England's travel plans for years to come. When the team was due to play their first away match against Spain following the 2004 incident, England refused to return to Madrid. Consequently, the 2009 fixture was relocated to Seville.

Tuchel Prepares the Squad

With the team finally returning to Madrid, Thomas Tuchel is ensuring all necessary awareness measures are in place. The manager will remind his England players of the specific anti-racism protocols before they take to the pitch against Spain.

The briefing is part of a consistent approach to away fixtures where historical or contemporary concerns exist. Addressing the preparation for the Madrid fixture, Tuchel confirmed the steps being taken by the camp.

"We had the same discussion before the Serbia game,"

Tuchel stated, referencing the team's recent preparations.

A Trouble-Free Recent Record

Despite the long absence from Madrid, England have still played three away games against Spain since the 2004 match. After the initial refusal to play in the capital led to the 2009 game in Seville, the team travelled to Alicante for their next Spanish fixture in 2015.

The third and most recent fixture in Spain took place back in Seville in 2018. Across all three of these subsequent matches, there were no problems reported. The England camp will look to maintain that trouble-free record as they navigate their long-awaited return to Madrid.