In solidarity with striker Borja Iglesias, hundreds of Celta de Vigo fans will watch the game with Rayo Vallecano at Balaídos Stadium, this Sunday afternoon (5:30 pm) with painted nails, something that some players also chose to do.
The initiative, promoted by fans and also through the Vigo club’s communication channels, follows several homophobic insults suffered by Borja Iglesias after the Celta won 1-0 against Sevillaat the Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán Stadium, last Monday.
While waiting for a friend after the Sevilla game, Borja was insulted by some fans who were nearby. “Paint your nails”, “I hope you die” and “no shame, go home” were some of the insults directed at the Celta striker, who is known for promoting the fight against racism, homophobia or other social injustices, getting involved in associated initiatives. One of the ways you do this is by painting your nails, something I had already done in the past, for example when I was at Betis.
Celta even shared the challenge of the support group Carcamãns Celestes, who wrote on social media: «Well, we’re going this Sunday with a manicure done and our nails painted. Who joins?” Celta responded following the call: «Count on us, Carcamãns Celestes. Celtista, this Sunday, at the stadium, with painted nails”, wrote the Galician club.
Still on the subject, in 2024, ex-Sporting player Héctor Bellerín had criticized those who question those who paint their nails, unlike what happens when drinking alcohol. «If we get drunk, no one says anything, but if we paint our nails…», he saidat the time.
