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Celta Backs Painted Nails Gesture for Rayo Match After Abuse of Borja Iglesias

The club's endorsement of a fan-led show of support follows homophobic insults directed at the striker after the Sevilla game.

Overview

  • Celta amplified Carcamäns Celestes' call for supporters to attend Sunday's Balaídos match against Rayo Vallecano with painted nails as a visible stand against homophobia.
  • A viral video captured homophobic insults shouted at Borja Iglesias outside the Sánchez-Pizjuán, and the forward later posted a photo showing his nails painted.
  • The club issued an institutional message rejecting discrimination, and La Liga publicly echoed support against hate in football.
  • Online reaction split between broad backing and a torrent of homophobic and insulting replies targeting the club, its fans and the player.
  • Supporters’ groups including Merlegos Celestes, Le-Chuzas Celestes and Blau Cel plan to participate, with Merlegos organizing manicure services and solidarity messages also arriving from other cities and rival supporters.