OFFICIAL: Real Madrid support Ramos after controversial celebration

Last Thursday, Sergio Ramos took a penalty for Real Madrid against his former club Sevilla and decided to flick it past the goalkeeper. After hitting the back of the net, he clearly redeemed himself against those Sevilla fans who have been calling him a traitor —and worse— ever since he signed for Madrid many years ago.

This has led to La Liga creating an investigation to potentially punish Sevilla and the Andalusian club releasing a statement condemning both the songs by the fans and also Sergio Ramos' celebration. Real Madrid released the following statement defending their captain.

1. Real Madrid expresses its complete support for our and the Spanish national team's captain, Sergio Ramos, whose conduct is and has always been exemplary throughout his sporting career, to the point where he now represents a benchmark in values for all fans of football and sport in general.

2. Real Madrid has been uncompromising in applying a zero-tolerance policy towards violence with absolute conviction, acting forcefully to renounce those whose conduct tarnishes the good image that football should project. The sport should be a meeting place and common ground, not an environment of insults, hurling objects or any other manifestation of violence.

3. Real Madrid has always highlighted its willingness to collaborate with other clubs to eradicate violence at football stadiums and we therefore join the call made by Sevilla F.C. in their statement, for the fans attending tomorrow's game do so to enjoy the sport on a basis of respect and tolerance.