Real Madrid’s forward Vinicius Junior once again suffered racial abuse during an away match on Sunday, May 21.
The abuse has since sparked outrage in both Spain and Brazil.
Vinicius was targeted by opposition fans at the Mestalla during Real Madrid’s 1-0 defeat to Valencia.
The Brazilian international was later sent off in the 97th minute for violent conduct in added time following an altercation with striker Hugo Duro.
Following the match, the 22-year-old expressed his displeasure in a Twitter post saying “La Liga belongs to racists.”
“It wasn’t the first time, nor the second, nor the third. Racism is normal in La Liga. In football they think it’s normal, the federation does too – and the opponent encourages it.
“I’m so sad. The championship that once belonged to Ronaldinho, Ronaldo, Cristiano [Ronaldo] and [Lionel] Messi today belongs to racism,” he tweeted.
“But I am strong and I will go to the end against racists. Even if it is far from here.”
Não foi a primeira vez, nem a segunda e nem a terceira. O racismo é o normal na La Liga. A competição acha normal, a Federação também e os adversários incentivam. Lamento muito. O campeonato que já foi de Ronaldinho, Ronaldo, Cristiano e Messi hoje é dos racistas. Uma nação…
— Vini Jr. (@vinijr) May 21, 2023
The Brazilian striker said he would continue to fight against racism “if I have to suffer more and more so that future generations don’t go through similar situations.”
In reaction to the horrific remark, the foundation for the greatest ever footballing icon, Pele Foundation has spoken out on the abuse, rightfully being on the Real Madrid superstar’s side via a Twitter post.
The Foundation said the late Pele had always admired Vinicius Jr for his talent, adding that the “King loved the affection and respect they had for each other.”
They expressed their support for the 22-year-old to fight against racism.
“The Pelé Foundation supports you and admires your courage. Keep being a vocal advocate and never stop smiling in the face of adversity. Racism no longer has a place in the sport we love so much,” the Foundation tweeted.
Pelé sempre admirou o Vinicius, pelo sua alegria e talento. Nas oportunidades que tiveram de conversar, o Rei adorava o carinho e respeito que nutriram um pelo outro. Neste dia, temos certeza absoluta que o Edson estaria nos pedindo para escrever isso, então assim o faremos.… pic.twitter.com/1zTogsmp4s
— Pelé (@Pele) May 22, 2023
However, FIFA President Gianni Infantino told LaLiga to “stop talking, start acting” and demanded five points be enacted to improve the situation, including education in schools and banning those found guilty of racism from stadiums worldwide.
Real Madrid has since condemned the abuse which was subjected to their player.
A statement from the club on Monday read “Real Madrid strongly condemns the events that took place yesterday against our player Vinicius Junior.
“These events represent a direct attack on the social and democratic model of coexistence of our state based on the rule of law.
“Real Madrid believes that such attacks also constitute a hate crime and has therefore filed the corresponding report with the Attorney General’s Office, specifically with the Prosecutor’s Office against crimes of hatred and discrimination, in order for the facts to be investigated and for those responsible to be held accountable.”
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