“The championship that belonged to Ronaldo and Messi now belongs to the racists”
Stand: 22.05.2023
Victim and accuser: Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior
Which: REUTERS
Vinicius Junior was once again the victim of racist abuse in Spain. The Real Madrid striker then settles accounts with Spanish society and the league. The incident has repercussions for the G-7 summit in Hiroshima.
Nfter another racism scandal, Real Madrid’s star striker Vinicius Junior has made serious allegations against the Spanish soccer league. “It wasn’t the first, or the second, or the third time. Racism is normal in La Liga. The competition thinks it’s normal, the association does too and the opponents encourage it. I’m sorry. The championship that once belonged to Ronaldinho, Ronaldo, Cristiano and Messi now belongs to the racists. A beautiful nation that welcomed me and that I love, but which has agreed to export the image of a racist country to the world,” wrote the Brazilian on social media after the game at Valencia FC (0 :1) had again come to racist insults against him.
The stadium spokesman asked fans after the incidents to show respect and refrain from racist remarks. Shortly before the end, Vinicius also saw the red card after forming a pack. In the past there had been repeated racist insults against the 22-year-old.
Known insults: Vinicius Junior once again experienced open racism at FC Valencia
Which: REUTERS
“I’m sorry for the Spaniards who disagree, but today in Brazil Spain is considered a country of racists. And unfortunately, for everything that happens each week, I have no defense. But I’m strong and I’ll take action against racists to the end,” added the striker, who repeatedly accused those responsible for the league of inaction.
Lula in solidarity with Vinicius
LaLiga President Javier Tebas told Vinicius on Twitter: “Before you criticize and slander LaLiga, you need to do your research properly. Don’t let yourself be manipulated and make sure you understand each other’s competencies and the work we’ve done together.” Tebas criticized the striker for not showing up for any of the agreed appointments. The league said it would investigate the incident. “Should a hate crime be identified, we will take appropriate legal action,” it said.
Vinicius Junior received support from his home country. President Luiz Inácio Lula began his press conference at the conclusion of the G-7 summit in Hiroshima with a statement on the national player. He expressed his solidarity with the offensive player. “It is not possible that almost in the middle of the 21st century, racial prejudice would gain strength in several football stadiums in Europe,” said Lula.
Real coach Carlo Ancelotti also promised Vinicius his support: “Today was a sad day at the Mestalla when a group of fans showed their worst version. It’s time to stop talking and take bold action. Racism has no place in football or in society. No to racism,” wrote the Italian on Instagram.
