MADRID — Mapi Leon, a player for Barcelona, has refuted allegations that she touched the genital area of an opponent during a recent match in the Spanish women’s league. The incident, which was criticized by Espanyol as “unacceptable,” has sparked significant controversy.
In a statement released by FC Barcelona on Monday, Leon firmly stated that the incident did not occur. “I only touched her leg,” she clarified. “There was absolutely no contact with any sensitive area, nor was there any intention to do so. This was merely an ordinary moment during the game, and I believe it has been blown out of proportion.”
Footage from the match on Sunday depicts Leon and Espanyol’s Daniela Caracas competing for position away from the ball. At one point, Leon appears to make contact with the shorts of Caracas with her right hand. Following this, Leon reportedly asked Caracas, “What’s wrong with you?” as they continued to jostle for position.
Leon emphasized her respect for her colleagues, stating, “I would never consider touching the private areas of any teammate; such actions go against my values. I would never engage in such behavior.” Espanyol responded by stating that Leon’s actions were a violation of their defender’s privacy.
The club defended Caracas and asserted that any actions which jeopardize the integrity of female players on the field are unacceptable. Espanyol expressed its belief that respect and sportsmanship are core values of soccer, hoping that incidents like this one are treated seriously. Furthermore, they indicated that their legal services are available to Caracas if she decides to pursue legal action.
The club noted that Caracas preferred to refrain from immediate comments on the incident to avoid potential repercussions for herself and the team. Additionally, Espanyol condemned the inappropriate backlash faced by Caracas online, coming from a large number of individuals who targeted her with insults.
In addressing the online harassment, Leon expressed her disapproval of the negative attention that Caracas has received. “I strongly condemn the harassment Daniela is facing on social platforms, as it is unrelated to me, and I extend my full support to her,” Leon remarked.
As a recognized international player for Spain, Leon expressed her frustration regarding the fallout from the incident, which she feels aims to tarnish her reputation and principles. “I am deeply upset and disappointed. I reserve the right to take legal action against anyone who attempts to exploit this moment in the game to slander my name based on baseless claims,” she asserted.
In the match itself, Barcelona secured a victory over city rivals Espanyol, winning 2-0.
