The Costa Rican Football Federation’s Ethics Committee has imposed a six-month ban on Jeaustin Campos Madriz, a prominent football coach, for racially insulting a Jamaican player. Along with the suspension from all football-related activities, Campos has also been fined $5,000. The Federation, however, noted that the decision is not final, as Campos, currently coaching Herediano, has the right to appeal under national and FIFA regulations.
The incident came to light in March when Jamaican footballer Javon East, during his time at Saprissa, accused Campos of making racist remarks. At the time, Campos was coaching Saprissa, one of Costa Rica’s most successful football clubs. Following the allegations, Saprissa terminated Campos’s contract on March 28, stating its zero-tolerance policy towards such behavior.
East’s complaint was initially raised with the Association of Professional Players of Costa Rica, which promptly communicated with Saprissa’s Board of Directors, denouncing the incident. The reported racial abuse occurred during a training session in front of other team members.
This case falls under the purview of a law implemented in Costa Rica since 2020, aimed at curbing violence and racism in sports. This law imposes both civil and criminal penalties for such offenses, demonstrating Costa Rica’s commitment to combating racism in sports.